The Judge Is Not Supposed to Be Your Opponent

It is April 3, Welcome to yestohellwith.com.

Most Americans walk into a courtroom believing that the judge is automatically against them.

Sometimes, sadly, that is exactly how it is.

But that is not what a judge is supposed to be.

A judge is not supposed to be the prosecutor. A judge is not supposed to be the government’s lawyer. A judge is not supposed to protect the system at all costs.

A judge is supposed to be an impartial arbiter.

The judicial canons of ethics require judges to act fairly, patiently, and without favoritism.

The canons generally require that a judge:

· uphold the integrity and independence of the judiciary;

· avoid impropriety and even the appearance of impropriety;

· perform duties fairly and impartially;

· give every person the right to be heard.

Those principles appear in the Model Code of Judicial Conduct adopted throughout the United States.

The problem is that many Americans have been taught to remain silent in court.

They believe that if a judge interrupts them, mocks them, rushes them, or protects the other side, they must simply accept it.

No.

Quietly. Respectfully. Firmly.

You may say:

“Your Honor, I respectfully ask that I be permitted to complete my statement.”

Or:

“Your Honor, I respectfully request equal treatment and an opportunity to be heard.”

That is not disrespect. That is accountability.

A free people must never confuse a robe with infallibility.

Judges are servants of justice, not masters of the people.

And as always, may truth reign supreme.