“The idea for this work is truly visionary. It is an amazing compilation of thoughtful insights into the judiciary, and it will soon become an important historical piece.”

“Jeff Goodman’s remarkable vision in assembling authentic, eye-opening stories of what it is to become a judge is inspirational and fascinating, reaffirming my reverence for those who mete out justice.”

“You don’t need a law degree to be drawn into The Book of Judges — just a curiosity about the people who shape our justice system. These 66 judges describe their journeys to the bench with surprising candor, revealing not just the mechanics of the process, but the emotions that come with it – hope, doubt, frustration, and fulfillment.”

“The Book of Judges provides an impressive inside look at the judicial selection process. One could not ask for a more insightful — and movingly personal — view of the men and women we entrust with the enormous power of the court.”

“One word instantly comes to mind in reviewing The Book of Judges:
EPIC. This creative and incomparable collection of firsthand essays from a
plethora of judges from wide-ranging backgrounds provides unparalleled
behind the robe’s insights into the world of judging found nowhere else.”

At a time when our judiciary has become increasingly politicized, The Book of Judges:
Perspectives from the Bench is a vital and timely read, not just for aspiring judges and
lawyers, but for anyone who cares about the integrity of our justice system. It is a
remarkable and illuminating exploration of the judicial nomination and selection process.
Both practical and inspiring, the book demystifies a process often shrouded in mystery
while reaffirming faith in merit, fairness, and judicial independence.

As a young corporate attorney, I found The Book of Judges: Perspectives from the Bench, quite compelling. Its
chapters authored by judges offer personal insights into the legal system’s nuances, providing valuable lessons
for corporate associates despite limited judicial interaction. Highly recommend to all young attorneys.

A useful collection of essays from judges regarding their professional journeys. Jeff Goodman’s, The Book of Judges, offers a unique compilation of perspectives on the judicial vocation through addressing various aspects of their experiences. Drawing from his own service on state and federal nominating the contributing judges. For law students, practitioners, and policymakers alike, The Book of Judges, provides much introspection and integrity in public service. I’m looking forward to Jeff’s promised companion volume…

The Book of Judges consistently reflects its creator’s unerringly canny matching of
contributor expertise and experience and assigned topic. By enlisting participants in
his project according to their strong suits and their recognized abilities, Jeff
Goodman has produced a volume uniquely enlightening, informed as it is by a roster of
jurists notable for their performance and perspective. This collective exercise in
insight ought to inspire another 49 similar undertakings, one for each of the other
states.

For nearly 37 years as a trial lawyer, I have witnessed firsthand that our system of justice could not
endure without the men and women who choose to take on the solemn responsibility of the bench. They
are the guardians of fairness, calling the balls and strikes with integrity—sometimes in the immediacy of
a split-second ruling on an objection, and at other times after weeks of careful reflection on a motion.
Though no human judgment is infallible, these jurists embody the principle set forth in the Book of
Judges: they uphold the rule of law each and every day. They preside with respect for litigants and
lawyers alike, and every one of them has made profound personal sacrifices in service to justice.
To sit on the bench is not simply to hold office; it is to shoulder the weight of the law on behalf of us all.
For that, they deserve our deepest gratitude. Thank you, Jeff, for gathering this work that honors their
extraordinary calling.