David Bernthal/Off the Bench | Deliberate process in appointing a judge
The subject of selection of judges has been described in previous columns. Recent events have provided an excellent illustration in real life rather than in the abstract. We can learn by taking a...
View ArticleDavid Bernthal/Off the Bench | Importance of free press, independent judiciary
Recently, I had occasion to read a News-Gazette editorial and a letter in response written by my friend and colleague John Thies, past president of the Illinois State Bar Association. What I read...
View ArticleDavid Bernthal/Off the Bench | Understanding the significance of Law Day
We are frequently reminded that time does fly. I experienced one such reminder when I sat down to write my May column. Since May 1 is Law Day, I had an obvious subject. But I hesitated, thinking I had...
View ArticleOff the Bench | Expect more 'difficult questions' to be raised
This month, I decided to take on a challenge in terms of controversy and complexity. The topic is a case recently decided by the United States Supreme Court. The case highlights changes in our society...
View ArticleOff the Bench | Pro se litigants face several challenges
Recently, I saw a commercial in which a man was depicted performing surgery on himself. While that may have been an attention-getter, we all know that we cannot go to the hospital for such a procedure....
View ArticleOff the Bench | Reinforcing a culture of civility
In a recent conversation, a friend commented on the deterioration of civility in our society. He was referring to civilized conduct in which people are polite and show courtesy to others. I had to...
View ArticleOff the Bench | Restoring civility in our society
Despite growing up in an era in which one read a newspaper that was delivered to the residence, I am still a little surprised when someone outside the delivery area sends me a comment on a column.read...
View ArticleOff the Bench | Constitution still has everyday impact
How did you spend Monday, Sept. 17, 2018? That may seem an odd question. That day was the 231st anniversary of the United States Constitution. The day is now referred to as Constitution Day and...
View ArticleOff the Bench | Rarely an easy resolution in civil cases
One of the questions regularly asked by people involved in civil litigation is "why does it take so long?"Recognize that the court has a mission of processing its cases while allowing the litigants...
View ArticleOff the Bench| First Amendment is a common element
We are in the middle of a very special time of year. Three significant events have happened or will soon take place. At first glance they may not seem related, but I suggest there is a common element....
View ArticleOff the Bench | Tough decisions often left to judges
Ready or not, we have entered a new year. As is usually the case, many people are talking about their New Year's resolutions.The minister in a recent church service even made them the centerpiece of...
View ArticleOff the Bench | Criticism, debate part of judicial process
Last month, I wrote about criticism of judicial decisions by politicians, cartoonists, editorial writers and others.Such commentary is an acceptable part of our democracy. However, there is a danger in...
View ArticleOff the Bench | Curious case of child suing parents for giving birth to him
While I am not a YouTube regular, I did have occasion to check it out for the purpose of learning more about Raphael Samuel, a man in India who has announced that he is suing his parents.read more
View ArticleOff the Bench | Law Day 2019: 'Free Speech, Free Press, Free Society'
Most secular holidays and observances are tied to a birthday or anniversary of an important event. Lincoln's birthday and Independence Day are two prominent examples.At least one upcoming holiday...
View ArticleOff the Bench | Tough decisions often left up to the judge
Picture yourself participating in the following drama, which, although fictional, is representative of proceedings taking place daily in courtrooms throughout the U.S. You can choose any role. You can...
View ArticleOff the Bench | Courthouse employees stay plenty busy
Do you ever have a memory from a prior event pop into your mind? That happened to me recently when I recalled my first interview for the judgeship in the Central District of Illinois.read more
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