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U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana
George Mason University School of Law, 1980
Why did you decide to enter the legal profession?
After college I worked on a few political campaigns and subsequently moved to Washington, D.C. While working on Capitol Hill I quickly became aware that those with a law degree had many more job opportunities than those without the degree. Although no one in my family was a lawyer and I had no thought of actually practicing law, I believed a law degree would be beneficial to me in the Washington job market. Really just a pretty practical decision.
If you hadn’t pursued a legal career, what would you be doing?
An airline pilot. I have always had an interest in aviation, and in 2000 I obtained my private pilot’s license. I went on to be certified as an instrument-rated pilot and really enjoyed flying my Cessna 182 for many years.
Who is someone who has inspired you in your career?
My past and present judicial colleagues. I have been very fortunate to have worked with such a devoted and brilliant group of public servants.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
A wise lawyer told me early in my career, “Whatever your practice, integrity is the rock upon which your career will be built. A loss of reputation is a great loss which cannot be recovered.”
What makes a good lawyer/judge?
Lawyers and judges are no different from anyone else. A good lawyer or judge is a good person with attributes such as honesty, integrity, kindness, empathy and a good sense of humor.
Do you think the role/expectations of a judge have changed in your years on the bench?
I don’t believe the role or expectations of a judge have changed over the years. The bar and the community as a whole expect a judge to be impartial, fair and unbiased. A judge has always been expected to listen carefully to the evidence and arguments of all parties and render a fair and thoughtful decision based on the facts and the law.
What’s your advice for lawyers who want to become judges?
My advice would be to become involved in your local bar association and your community by volunteering to serve on boards and other civic organizations. Also, seek to obtain as much courtroom experience as you can so those whose support you are comfortable that you are knowledgeable about running an efficient courtroom. Finally, and maybe most importantly, it’s always a good thing to know a U.S. senator or a governor!
What is something you wish people knew about lawyers?
Most lawyers care deeply about their profession, their clients and their community. It’s the rare community board or foundation that doesn’t have a lawyer among its membership.
Do you have a secret talent?
Not that I am aware of.
How do you spend your free time?
I enjoy playing golf, and I have regularly practiced yoga for 20 years. •
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