What the Judge Brings to the Bench
Not long ago, I wrote about a hearing that reminded me why this profession still matters to me after all these years. It was a case that showed how much difference empathy, calm, and genuine attention from the bench can make. Justice was applied firmly, but also humanely. It did not feel rushed or mechanical. It felt right. “The Power of Empathy in the Court of First Instance of Aruba“. wrote about that experience first because it shows how the system looks at its best.
I have been walking in and out of courtrooms for almost twenty-eight years now. Long enough to see judges come and go. Long enough to recognize patterns. Long enough to know that judging is not just about the ruling, but about presence. Some judges earn deep respect. Not because they always rule in your favor, but because of how they conduct themselves. They are prepared. They listen. They challenge counsel where needed. They allow room for proper sparring during a hearing, not as ego, but as a way to get to the bottom of the case. Their judgments are thoughtful and clearly reasoned. With those judges, even when you lose, you walk out with peace. There are also judges who are sharp and critical. They ask tough questions. They interrupt. They push. That is not a flaw. When done properly, it sharpens the debate and improves the quality of justice. Win or lose, the process feels fair because you were heard and tested.
And then there is the rare one.😡 Always seemingly in a foul mood. Short tempered. Dismissive. When the judgment is made public, you pause and ask yourself, seriously, is this really it? Most of us are fine with a bit of breakfast jurisprudence. We all have mornings. We all wake up human. But waking up on the wrong side of the bed should be the exception, not the rule. When it becomes the rule, it stops being human and starts being institutional. That is when confidence in the courtroom quietly erodes. Not because of the outcome, but because of the tone. Those moments do not just affect the parties involved. They reflect poorly on Lady Justice herself and, more unfairly, on the many members of the bench who show up consistently with dedication, empathy, and a steady frame of mind. 🫶
We should show up to the job every day with a smile and a positive outlook. The day I can no longer do that is the day I will hang up my toga for good and spare the world my negativity. I genuinely believe we should all do that exercise in self-reflection from time to time. Both sides exist. It is not always sunshine and rain. But when empathy is present, together with sound judgment, the system shows exactly what it is meant to be. If you happen to be a judge and you are not happy on the bench or no longer fit for it, do us a favor and do yourself a favor. Hang the toga and go find happiness.
Disclaimer:
This column is written for commentary and entertainment purposes only. Any characters, situations, or descriptions are fictitious. Any resemblance to any judge or judicial officer, or otherwise, is purely coincidental.
