Is it against the law (or can you get in big trouble) to...
By genihanna
@genihanna (358)
United States
November 25, 2008 11:46am CST
tell a judge, bluntly, yet respectfully, what you think of him and/or a decision he made?
I have been indirectly involved with the case of a juvenile's involvement in a crime (done by the group she was with) The sentence given to this kid was way too severe and is doing much more harm than good. (This is a whole 'nuther discussion!)
I want to write the judge a letter telling him how wrong and unfair and politically motivated he is. It will be all I can do NOT to tell him what a jerk he is - but I plan to be professional and respectful in order to be heard and taken seriously.
Is it against the law to disagree vehemently with a judge and let him know how you feel? Isn't it one of my constitutional rights - free speech? Or are there lines not to be crossed when dealing with authorities in the justice system? Sometimes, if you disagree or argue with a cop, you risk being arrested just because!(When this judge runs for re-election, I plan on campaigning fiercely for whoever his opponent is - he could be "Andy Gump the Chump" or "Joe Dirt" - anyone would be better!)
1 response
@zshornick (113)
• United States
25 Nov 08
It is not illegal to speak to a judge, but think about his position of authority. And you said he is politically motivated, so be sure not to say anything that might come back to haunt your for any reason. You don't want him to get mad and and use his connections to get in your way of something. That said, I wouldn't bluntly say "you are politically motivated" but you might want to say something like "I ask that you reconsider your love of justice and law and doing what is genuinely right for the charged." It implies that he is less than just and I think he'd get it.
The only time I'd worry about confronting a judge is in a courtroom. There, you might be held in contempt.
1 person likes this
@genihanna (358)
• United States
26 Nov 08
I appreciate your thoughtful and objective advice - thank you - I'll let you know what I come up with! It's one of those things that I just refuse to let go! Happy Thanksgiving!
