Benjamin Lewis Sworn In As Judge

Rickey Stokes

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Posted by: RStokes
thehoustonnewspaper@yahoo.com
334-790-1729
Date: Jul 27 2010 6:43 PM

HOUSTON COUNTY:  Opened by John Gause, Benjamin Lewis was sworn into this afternoon by Presiding Circuit Judge Brad Mendheim as District Judge.

The ceremony was opened by prayer led by Bishop Paul Meyers. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Houston County Sheriff Andy Hughes.

Remarks were by Circuit Judge Butch Binford.

Judge Binford said there are a number of qualities for a Judge. That people want a level playing field when they come before the court and Judge’s are to be fair and impartial with no preconceived ideas.

Judge Binford said a judge serves all of the people, Republican – Democrat and people that do not vote. Judge Binford said people rising is not for the Judge, but the respect for the office of Judge.  Judge Binford said anytime a person holding the position of Judge feels he is better than someone is the day he needs to pack his robe and leave.

Judge Binford said he feels Benjamin Lewis holds the qualities of Judge that will serve the people.

Jackson County Judge Hatcher spoke of Lewis tenure as State Attorney in Jackson County. Judge Hatcher challenged remembering always you serve the people. Judge Hatcher said Lewis, even though he was prosecuting people, he always treated them with dignity and respect. Hatcher said Lewis was a good administrator as well.

State Senator Scott Beason drove from Birmingham to speak at Judge Lewis Investiture. Beason, who has been roommates with Lewis as he has served as State Legislator, said Lewis is a man of integrity and is always interested in what is best for the people. Beason said the people of this county could be proud of Lewis and his service.

Judge Mendheim gave the Oath of Office to Lewis while his four boys held the Bible. Following the Oath, Judge Lewis wife placed the robe on Lewis.

Judge Lewis spoke that people from all walks of life come before the court. He will serve with honesty and integrity. Lewis said he has enjoyed his tenure in the Alabama Legislature and looks forward to the time as Judge.

Judge Lewis spoke of his time on the bench today. With 60 cases on the trial docket they worked through lunch handling cases.

After Judge Lewis comments, Rev. Ricky Plummer gave the closing prayer of dedication.

While today was swearing in ceremonies, Judge Lewis has been serving on the bench for over a month.

The ceremonies were held at The Depot, a beautiful facility next to the Wiregrass Museum of Arts.

 

 

 

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