Thursday, January 09, 2025

James Earl Carter by Michael Caruso

 Guest Post by Michael Caruso

As you know, today has been designated as a National Day of Mourning for President Carter.

To recognize his passing, I thought I would note the giants he appointed to our district court. Because many of David’s readers  likely did not practice before these judges, I hope those who had will comment about their experiences. Also, I hope current judges who served alongside these judges (or clerked for them) also will share.

In order of appointment:

William Hoeveler

Jose A. Gonzalez, Jr.

Edward B. Davis

James W. Kehoe

James C. Paine

Eugene P.  Spellman and

Alcee Hastings

Among many other accomplishments, we owe President Carter a debt of gratitude for making these appointments.

1 comment:

Bob Becerra said...

Judge Hoeveler was a gentleman; great demeanor, smart, thoughtful. Little thing he used to do: When you appeared before him in a trial for opening/closing or before argument, and you stated, "may it please the Court" he would immediately respond "yes sir!" Just a little thing that showed that he appreciated you appearing before him as counsel. Very fair Judge.

Judge Gonzalez another with a great demeanor; you knew he was listening to every little thing going on in his courtroom, and was always polite. Another very fair judge

Judge Paine was very fair; really put the government to its proof and never accepted assertions at face value; no favoritism. You always knew your client had a shot with him. Judges Davis, Spellman and Kehoe were similar.