In 2002, retired Judge Bernard Boland wrote this article for “Bench & Bar” on ten judicial aspirations for new judges. It has helped shape many judicial practices over the years, including my own. Hopefully, it will do the same for you.
Now in my 20th year as a judge, I was recently asked, along with many others, to jot down some of the things I would like to tell newly appointed judges. It occurs to me that most of my musings also apply to the practice of law and to practicing lawyers, who, to paraphrase our 16th President, could also find useful the free advice that is too often a judge’s stock in trade.
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Thanks for posting this, Alan.
In 1981, I was a year out of high school and trying to find my way. Unfortunately, that lead to alcohol and a DWI. At sentencing in Stearns County, Judge Boland asked me if I had anything to say. I said, yes sir, I joined the U.S. Marine Corps and ship out to Boot Camp in a couple weeks. Judge Boland looked me dead in the eyes and said “Good! I don’t want to see you around here and in my court for a very long time.” Fast forward 30+ years and 22 years in the Marine Corps. Then law school and starting Veterans Courts in Minnesota. I then found myself back in front of Judge Boland just before he retired. This time I was representing a young veteran in trouble with the law. Judge Boland obviously did not remember me but I remembered him. Full circle moment!
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John, that is an amazing story. Great inspiration for young people on how they can turn their life around. Thanks for sharing it!
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A great blast from the past, which I am going to re-read and absorb. Thanks, Alan, and I hope all is well with you.
Erik J. Askegaard
District Court Judge
Crow Wing County Courthouse
213 Laurel Street, Suite 11
Brainerd, MN 56401
Erik.Askegaard@courts.state.mn.userik@askegaardlaw.com
218.824.1310 phone
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Thanks Erik! I hope all is well with you too.
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I just a few minutes ago finished a difficult possession of child porn jury trial. When the state rested and the defense moved for a judgment of acquittal , I quickly pulled up your latest training on that topic (which contained emphasis on largely circumstantial evidence issues, which this case case). Reviewed it quickly, did a quick update on the law, and it guided me (I hope) in making a good and proper record in dealing with it!
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I have no doubt you did a great job with it. Its nice to hear some of my updates are still being used. It makes me feel less old than I actually am.
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