How to Write to a Judge: Tips & Examples (US)

Addressing a judge requires careful consideration of legal etiquette and precise communication skills, especially within the United States court system. Mastering the art of composing a formal letter to a judge necessitates understanding that clarity and respect are paramount, which is why consulting resources like the American Bar Association can be invaluable. Lawyers are usually skilled in communicating with a judge. However, learning how to write to a judge may be necessary for individuals representing themselves, especially when filing documents with the Clerk of Court. The guidelines contained in this article provide a detailed approach to ensure your correspondence meets the necessary standards of formality and relevance.

The Cornerstone of Law: Mastering Effective Legal Writing

Effective communication stands as a fundamental pillar within the legal profession. Far from being a mere academic exercise, strong writing skills are indispensable tools for success in any legal role.

The Critical Role of Clear and Persuasive Writing

Legal practice hinges on the ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and precision. Whether drafting a contract, preparing a brief, or corresponding with opposing counsel, effective writing is paramount.

Consider the impact of a poorly written contract: ambiguities can lead to costly disputes. A poorly argued brief may result in an unfavorable ruling. Clear, persuasive writing is essential for advocating for clients and upholding the principles of justice.

Impact on Case Outcomes and Professional Reputation

The ability to write effectively directly influences case outcomes. A well-crafted argument, supported by compelling evidence and presented in a clear, logical manner, can sway a judge or jury.

Furthermore, strong writing skills are essential for building and maintaining a solid professional reputation. Legal professionals are judged not only on their knowledge of the law but also on their ability to communicate effectively. Errors in writing can lead to being perceived as less competent.

The Interconnectedness of Clarity and Credibility

Clarity fosters credibility. When legal professionals communicate with precision and accuracy, they signal competence and reliability. Conversely, ambiguous or poorly written communication can undermine trust and raise questions about their expertise.

Key Elements of Effective Legal Writing

What, then, constitutes effective legal writing? Several key elements coalesce to form the bedrock of proficient legal communication.

Objectivity

Legal writing demands objectivity. Arguments must be based on facts and applicable law, avoiding personal opinions or emotional appeals.

Conciseness

Brevity is essential. Legal documents should be concise and to the point, avoiding unnecessary jargon or repetition.

Clarity

Clarity is paramount. Legal writing must be easily understood by the intended audience, whether it be a judge, a jury, or a client.

Professionalism

Finally, professionalism dictates tone, language, and formatting. Legal writing should be respectful, courteous, and adhere to established conventions.

Know Your Audience: Tailoring Your Message in the Legal World

Legal writing is not a monolithic exercise; rather, it’s a dynamic craft that demands careful consideration of the recipient. Understanding your audience and tailoring your communication accordingly is paramount to achieving successful outcomes in the legal arena. This section explores the diverse audiences legal professionals encounter and provides guidance on adapting writing styles to meet their unique needs and expectations.

Identifying Your Audience in the Legal System

Legal professionals interact with a wide array of individuals, each possessing distinct levels of legal knowledge and differing expectations. Understanding who you are addressing is the first step in effective legal communication. Key audiences include:

• Judges: The arbiters of the law, demanding formality, precision, and respect.
• Pro Se Litigants/Self-Represented Litigants: Individuals navigating the legal system without legal representation, often requiring clear and simplified explanations.
• Lawyers/Attorneys: Colleagues within the legal profession, expecting concise arguments and professional courtesy.
• Clerk of Court: Responsible for managing court records and processes, requiring meticulous attention to detail and adherence to procedural rules.
• Court Staff: Supporting personnel who facilitate court operations, benefiting from clear and respectful communication.

Adapting to Different Communication Needs

Recognizing the specific requirements of each audience is critical. Legal writing must transcend a one-size-fits-all approach, adopting nuances that cater to the recipient’s understanding and perspective.

Judges: Upholding Formality and Precision

Communications directed to judges must adhere to the highest standards of formality and precision. Legal arguments should be meticulously researched, clearly articulated, and supported by relevant case law and statutes. Respectful language and adherence to court rules are paramount.

Pro Se Litigants: Clarity and Accessibility

When communicating with pro se litigants, clarity is king. Legal jargon should be minimized, and explanations should be provided in plain language. The goal is to empower individuals to understand their rights and obligations, regardless of their legal background.

Lawyers/Attorneys: Concise and Professional Discourse

Communication among legal professionals should be concise and professional. Assume a shared understanding of legal principles and focus on presenting well-reasoned arguments supported by relevant authority. Avoid unnecessary jargon and maintain a respectful tone.

Clerk of Court and Court Staff: Accuracy and Procedural Adherence

Communications with the clerk of court and court staff must be accurate and meticulously detailed. Adherence to procedural rules is crucial, and all documents should be prepared in accordance with court guidelines. Clarity and respect are essential for facilitating smooth court operations.

Examples of Tailored Writing Styles

The following examples illustrate how writing styles can be tailored for specific audiences:

• For Judges: A legal brief presenting a complex argument with meticulous citations and formal language.

• For Pro Se Litigants: A letter explaining court procedures in plain language, using diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate key steps.

• For Lawyers: A concise email summarizing a recent case ruling and its potential impact on ongoing litigation.

By carefully considering the needs and expectations of your audience, you can elevate your legal writing from a mere conveyance of information to a powerful tool for persuasion and effective communication within the legal system.

The Four Pillars: Objectivity, Conciseness, Clarity, and Professionalism

Legal writing is not a monolithic exercise; rather, it’s a dynamic craft that demands careful consideration of the recipient. Understanding your audience and tailoring your communication accordingly is paramount to achieving successful outcomes in the legal arena. This section explores the four cornerstones upon which all effective legal writing is built: objectivity, conciseness, clarity, and professionalism. These are not merely stylistic preferences, but rather, fundamental principles that dictate the credibility and persuasiveness of your legal arguments.

These "Four Pillars" support the entire structure of legal communication. Without them, arguments crumble, interpretations become muddled, and the overall impact diminishes.

Objectivity: The Foundation of Credibility

Objectivity in legal writing is paramount. It demands the writer present facts accurately and without personal bias. This principle ensures that legal arguments are grounded in verifiable evidence and reasoned analysis, rather than subjective opinions or emotional appeals.

Maintaining Factual Accuracy

The cornerstone of objectivity is unwavering adherence to factual accuracy. Every statement of fact must be meticulously verified and supported by credible evidence.

Exaggerations, distortions, or omissions undermine the writer’s credibility and weaken the entire legal argument.

Presenting Unbiased Analysis

Even when interpreting complex legal issues, it’s crucial to present an unbiased analysis. Acknowledge alternative viewpoints, address potential counterarguments, and avoid language that suggests a predetermined conclusion.

Strive for a balanced and impartial presentation of the facts and relevant legal principles.

Conciseness: Efficiency in Communication

In the fast-paced legal world, time is a precious commodity. Conciseness demands that legal writing be efficient and to the point, avoiding unnecessary verbiage and redundancy.

Every word should serve a purpose, contributing to the clarity and impact of the message.

Eliminating Jargon and Redundancy

Legal jargon can be a barrier to understanding, particularly for audiences unfamiliar with legal terminology. While some technical terms may be unavoidable, strive to use plain language whenever possible.

Eliminate redundant phrases and sentences that add bulk without adding substance.

Prioritizing Key Information

Focus on presenting the most relevant information in a clear and direct manner. Avoid tangents or digressions that distract from the central argument.

Every sentence should contribute to the overall persuasiveness and clarity of the document.

Clarity: Ensuring Understandability

Clarity ensures that legal documents are easily understood by their intended audience. It requires precise language, logical organization, and a straightforward writing style.

Ambiguity and vagueness can lead to misinterpretations and undermine the effectiveness of legal communication.

Using Precise Language

Choose words carefully to convey your intended meaning with accuracy. Avoid vague or ambiguous terms that could be open to multiple interpretations.

Pay attention to the nuances of language and select the words that best capture the specific legal concepts you are addressing.

Structuring Arguments Logically

Organize your thoughts in a logical and coherent manner, presenting your arguments in a step-by-step fashion. Use headings, subheadings, and transitions to guide the reader through your analysis.

A well-structured argument is easier to follow and more persuasive.

Professionalism: Reflecting Competence and Respect

Professionalism encompasses the tone, language, and formatting of legal writing. It reflects the writer’s competence, respect for the legal system, and commitment to upholding ethical standards.

Maintaining a Respectful Tone

Avoid inflammatory language, personal attacks, or any form of disrespect towards opposing parties, the court, or other legal professionals. Maintain a civil and courteous tone throughout your writing, even when addressing contentious issues.

Adhering to Proper Formatting

Pay attention to the details of formatting, including font size, margins, citation style, and page numbering.

Adhering to established formatting conventions demonstrates attention to detail and respect for professional standards.

By embracing objectivity, conciseness, clarity, and professionalism, legal professionals can craft compelling and persuasive arguments that advance their clients’ interests and uphold the integrity of the legal system. These pillars are more than just guidelines; they are the foundation upon which successful legal communication is built.

Laying the Groundwork: Legal Procedure, Rules, and Jurisdiction

Legal writing is not a free-form exercise; it exists within a defined structure. This structure is shaped by procedural rules, substantive laws, and jurisdictional limitations. Understanding these constraints is essential for crafting effective and persuasive legal documents. This section addresses the procedural, regulatory, and jurisdictional considerations that guide the composition of legal documents.

Adhering to Legal Procedure and Courtroom Etiquette

The legal profession operates under a strict set of procedural rules. These rules dictate how legal actions are initiated, pursued, and resolved. Ignoring these rules can lead to severe consequences, including the dismissal of a case or the imposition of sanctions.

The Importance of Following Procedure

Adherence to legal procedure is not merely a formality; it is essential for ensuring fairness and due process. When all parties follow the same set of rules, the risk of arbitrary or unjust outcomes is minimized.

Furthermore, strict adherence signals to the court your respect for the legal process. Sloppy or inaccurate procedure suggests the opposite, undermining your credibility.

Mastering Courtroom Etiquette

Courtroom etiquette goes beyond simply knowing the rules of civil procedure. It encompasses a range of behaviors and practices that demonstrate respect for the court and the legal process.

This includes addressing the judge with proper titles, maintaining a respectful demeanor, and avoiding disruptive behavior.

Furthermore, it entails adhering to specific court customs, such as standing when the judge enters the room, or when addressing the court.

Violation of courtroom etiquette can damage your reputation and your client’s case.

Complying with Legal Rules: FRCP and FRCRP

The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (FRCP) and the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (FRCRP) are fundamental to federal litigation. These rules govern every aspect of the litigation process, from the filing of a complaint to the conduct of a trial.

Understanding the Scope of FRCP and FRCRP

The FRCP governs civil lawsuits in federal courts. It covers a wide range of topics, including pleading requirements, discovery procedures, motion practice, and trial rules.

Similarly, the FRCRP governs criminal proceedings in federal courts. It outlines the procedures for arrest, indictment, arraignment, trial, and sentencing.

The Importance of Compliance

Failing to comply with the FRCP or FRCRP can have serious consequences. Courts may dismiss claims, exclude evidence, or impose sanctions on attorneys who violate these rules.

Therefore, it is essential for legal professionals to have a thorough understanding of these rules.

Regularly updating your knowledge of any amendments to the FRCP and FRCRP will serve you well.

Understanding Jurisdictional Influence

Jurisdiction refers to a court’s authority to hear and decide a case. Understanding jurisdiction is critical because a court’s decision is invalid if it lacks jurisdiction over the subject matter or the parties involved.

Subject Matter Jurisdiction

Subject matter jurisdiction refers to a court’s authority to hear a particular type of case. For example, federal courts have subject matter jurisdiction over cases involving federal law or cases between citizens of different states where the amount in controversy exceeds \$75,000.

Personal Jurisdiction

Personal jurisdiction refers to a court’s authority over the parties to a lawsuit. Courts can exercise personal jurisdiction over individuals or entities that have sufficient contacts with the state or district in which the court is located.

Impact on Legal Arguments and Document Content

Jurisdictional considerations affect legal arguments and document content. Attorneys must demonstrate that the court has jurisdiction over the case and must tailor their arguments to the relevant jurisdiction’s laws and precedents.

The failure to establish proper jurisdiction can result in the dismissal of a case.

Properly understanding legal procedure, rules, and jurisdiction provides the essential framework for legal writing. Mastering these elements ensures that your legal documents are not only persuasive but also legally sound.

Building Your Case: Essential Elements of Persuasive Legal Writing

Legal writing is not merely about stating facts; it’s about constructing a compelling narrative that persuades the reader to accept your viewpoint. This requires a deliberate and thoughtful approach to crafting arguments, choosing language, and presenting information. The following sections will explore the key elements of persuasive legal writing, guiding you through the process of building a robust and convincing case.

Structuring Arguments Logically and Persuasively

The foundation of any strong legal argument is its logical structure. A well-structured argument presents information in a clear, coherent manner, making it easier for the reader to follow your reasoning and reach the desired conclusion.

Begin with a clear and concise statement of your position. This sets the stage for the rest of your argument and provides the reader with a roadmap of where you are going.

Each subsequent point should build upon the previous one, creating a logical progression that strengthens your overall argument. Use headings, subheadings, and transition words to guide the reader through your reasoning.

Consider the use of the IRAC method (Issue, Rule, Application, Conclusion) as a foundational structure for legal analysis. This framework ensures that you address all the necessary elements of a legal argument in a clear and organized manner.

Using Clear and Precise Language

The language you use in your legal writing is critical to its persuasiveness. Ambiguity and vagueness can undermine your arguments and leave the reader confused or unconvinced.

Choose your words carefully, selecting those that convey your intended meaning with precision. Avoid jargon and technical terms unless they are essential to your argument and you are confident that your audience will understand them.

Define any terms that may be unfamiliar to the reader, and use consistent terminology throughout your document. This will help to ensure that your arguments are clear and easy to follow.

Maintaining Objectivity and Avoiding Personal Opinions

Legal writing should be objective and impartial. While you are advocating for a particular position, it is important to present the facts fairly and avoid injecting your personal opinions or biases into your writing.

Focus on the evidence and the law, and avoid making emotional appeals or personal attacks. Cite credible sources to support your claims, and be transparent about any potential weaknesses in your argument.

By maintaining objectivity, you will enhance your credibility and make your arguments more persuasive.

Ensuring Conciseness and Eliminating Redundancy

In the legal profession, time is of the essence. Legal documents are often lengthy and complex, so it is important to be as concise as possible in your writing.

Avoid unnecessary words and phrases, and get straight to the point. Eliminate redundancy by consolidating similar ideas into a single, clear statement.

Review your writing carefully to identify any areas where you can be more concise, and make sure that every word serves a purpose.

Promoting Clarity Through Simple Sentence Structure and Avoiding Jargon

Clarity is paramount in legal writing. Even the most well-reasoned argument will be ineffective if it is difficult to understand.

Use simple sentence structures and avoid complex grammatical constructions. Break long sentences into shorter, more manageable ones.

As mentioned earlier, avoid jargon and technical terms unless they are absolutely necessary. When you do use such terms, define them clearly and provide context.

Upholding Professionalism Through Proper Tone and Format

The tone and format of your legal writing can have a significant impact on its persuasiveness. Maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout your document, even when addressing opposing arguments.

Use proper grammar and spelling, and adhere to the formatting guidelines of the court or jurisdiction. A well-formatted document demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism, which can enhance your credibility.

Proofread your writing carefully before submitting it to ensure that it is free of errors. A polished and professional document will make a positive impression on the reader and increase the likelihood that your arguments will be taken seriously.

Location Matters: Navigating the Courts

Building Your Case: Essential Elements of Persuasive Legal Writing
Legal writing is not merely about stating facts; it’s about constructing a compelling narrative that persuades the reader to accept your viewpoint. This requires a deliberate and thoughtful approach to crafting arguments, choosing language, and presenting information. The following explores the practical considerations of location and jurisdiction within the court system. Understanding where to file, how to address documents, and the nuances of different court systems is paramount to ensuring your legal writing reaches the intended audience and adheres to proper legal procedures.

Understanding the Federal and State Court Systems

The United States legal system operates on a dual court structure, comprising the federal courts and the state courts. Each system has its own distinct jurisdiction, procedures, and rules. Understanding these differences is essential for directing your legal writing to the appropriate forum.

Federal Court System

The federal court system is established by the U.S. Constitution and consists of district courts, circuit courts of appeals, and the Supreme Court. Federal courts primarily handle cases involving federal law, disputes between states, and cases where the United States is a party.

Jurisdiction is a key concept here.

Federal courts have limited jurisdiction, meaning they can only hear cases specifically authorized by the Constitution or Congress. Legal writing intended for federal courts must clearly demonstrate that the court has jurisdiction over the matter.

State Court System

State court systems are established by individual state constitutions and laws. These courts handle a wide range of cases, including most criminal matters, contract disputes, family law issues, and personal injury claims.

State courts have broad jurisdiction, generally encompassing all matters not specifically reserved for the federal courts. Legal writing for state courts must comply with the specific rules and procedures of that particular state’s court system.

Identifying and Understanding Specific Courthouses

Beyond understanding the broader court systems, it’s vital to be able to identify and understand the specific courthouse relevant to your case.

Each courthouse has its own address, contact information, and specific filing procedures.

Finding Courthouse Information

Most courthouses maintain websites that provide essential information, including:

• Physical address and mailing address
• Contact information for various departments
• Filing procedures and requirements
• Local court rules
• Judge’s individual practices and preferences

Consulting these resources is crucial for ensuring your legal writing is properly directed and complies with all applicable rules.

Addressing and Filing Procedures

Properly addressing legal documents is essential for ensuring they are received and processed correctly. Use the official courthouse address, including the specific department or clerk’s office if required.

Filing procedures vary from court to court. Some courts require electronic filing (e-filing), while others still accept paper filings.

Adhering to these procedures is paramount.

Failure to follow the correct procedures can result in delays, rejection of filings, or even dismissal of your case. Always verify the specific filing requirements before submitting any legal documents.

Your Legal Toolbox: Resources for Effective Writing

Building Your Case: Essential Elements of Persuasive Legal Writing
Location Matters: Navigating the Courts

Legal writing is not merely about stating facts; it’s about constructing a compelling narrative that persuades the reader to accept your viewpoint. This requires a deliberate and thoughtful approach to crafting arguments, choosing language, and presenting information. Fortunately, legal professionals have access to a wealth of resources that can significantly enhance their writing skills and ensure accuracy and compliance. Let us delve into some essential tools for your legal toolbox.

Leveraging Court Websites: Your Gateway to Essential Information

Court websites are indispensable resources for any legal professional. They serve as the primary source for accessing critical information directly from the source.

These websites provide access to court rules, procedures, forms, and contact information, all of which are essential for preparing and submitting legal documents.

Accessing Local Rules and Procedures

Navigating the intricacies of legal procedure can be daunting.

Court websites offer detailed local rules that govern the specific practices of individual courts. These rules cover everything from filing deadlines to formatting requirements.

Familiarizing yourself with these rules is crucial to avoid procedural errors that could jeopardize your case.

Downloading Essential Forms

Many court websites provide downloadable forms for various legal actions.

These forms are designed to ensure that all required information is included and presented in the correct format. Utilizing these resources can save time and reduce the risk of errors.

Finding Contact Information

When you need to contact the court, the website provides contact information for various departments and personnel.

Having access to the right phone numbers and email addresses can help you resolve questions quickly and efficiently. This ensures that you can seek clarification or guidance from the appropriate court staff.

The Power of Templates: Ensuring Proper Formatting and Structure

Templates for legal documents are invaluable tools that help ensure consistency, completeness, and proper formatting. Using templates can save time, reduce errors, and ensure that your documents adhere to established legal standards.

Benefits of Using Legal Templates

Legal templates offer numerous advantages.

They ensure all necessary sections and elements are included.

They provide a consistent structure and format, which enhances readability and professionalism.

They also offer a starting point, which can reduce the time and effort required to draft documents from scratch.

Where to Find Reliable Templates

Reputable sources for legal templates include:

• Legal software providers (e.g., LexisNexis, Thomson Reuters).
• Bar associations often provide members with access to document templates.
• Court websites sometimes offer templates for common filings.

Legal Dictionaries and Style Guides: Mastering Terminology and Citations

Legal dictionaries and style guides are essential for maintaining accuracy and consistency in legal writing.

These resources provide definitions of legal terms, rules for citations, and guidance on grammar and style. Utilizing these resources can enhance the credibility and persuasiveness of your writing.

The Importance of Legal Dictionaries

Legal terminology can be complex and nuanced.

Legal dictionaries, such as Black’s Law Dictionary, provide precise definitions of legal terms, ensuring that you use language correctly and consistently. This helps avoid ambiguity and misinterpretations in your writing.

Navigating Legal Style Guides

Proper citation is a cornerstone of legal writing.

Style guides, such as The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation, provide detailed rules for citing cases, statutes, and other legal authorities.

Adhering to these rules ensures that your citations are accurate and complete. This allows readers to easily verify your sources and demonstrates your attention to detail.

By utilizing these essential resources, legal professionals can significantly enhance the quality and effectiveness of their writing. Mastering the tools in your legal toolbox is an investment that will pay dividends throughout your career.

Understanding the Hierarchy: Chain of Command in Legal Settings

Legal writing is not merely about stating facts; it’s about constructing a compelling narrative that persuades the reader to accept your viewpoint. This requires a deliberate and thoughtful approach, one that also acknowledges and respects the established hierarchies within the legal system. A failure to understand and adhere to this chain of command can not only hinder the effectiveness of your communication but also damage your professional credibility.

Navigating the legal landscape requires more than just a mastery of legal principles; it demands a keen understanding of its organizational structure. Respecting the established chain of command is paramount to ensuring efficient communication and maintaining the integrity of legal processes.

The Importance of Respecting Hierarchies

In any legal setting, whether it’s a courtroom, a law firm, or a government agency, a clearly defined hierarchy exists. This structure dictates the flow of information, the delegation of tasks, and the lines of authority.

Respecting this hierarchy is not simply a matter of etiquette; it’s a fundamental aspect of professionalism. It demonstrates an understanding of the system and a commitment to its proper functioning.

Ignoring or bypassing the chain of command can lead to miscommunication, delays, and even ethical breaches.

By adhering to the established order, you contribute to a more organized and efficient legal environment.

Identifying the Chain of Command

The specific chain of command will vary depending on the setting, but some general principles apply:

• Law Firms: Typically, this involves partners, senior associates, junior associates, paralegals, and administrative staff. Communication should generally flow from the top down and from the bottom up, following these established lines.

• Courts: The hierarchy includes judges, clerks of court, court staff, and attorneys. Direct communication with a judge outside of established procedures is generally inappropriate. All filings and communications should be directed through the clerk of court, who serves as the administrative arm of the court.

• Government Agencies: The structure will vary, but it often includes supervising attorneys, senior attorneys, and junior attorneys, along with support staff. Understanding the specific organizational chart is crucial.

Knowing Whom to Contact First

Effective communication within the legal system starts with identifying the appropriate point of contact. Before reaching out, consider the nature of your inquiry and the responsibilities of different individuals within the organization.

• Start with the most direct point of contact. For example, if you have a question about a specific case filing, contact the clerk assigned to that case.

• Avoid "CC’ing" unnecessarily. Including too many people in an email chain can create confusion and overwhelm recipients. Only include those who have a direct need to know.

• When in doubt, ask. If you’re unsure who to contact, it’s always best to ask a colleague or supervisor for guidance.

Following the Proper Channels

Once you’ve identified the appropriate point of contact, it’s crucial to follow the established channels for communication. This may involve submitting requests in writing, scheduling meetings through the appropriate channels, or adhering to specific communication protocols.

• Formal communication: Matters of record, like submissions to the court, must follow specific guidelines.

• Internal communication: Internal matters often involve more informal channels.

• Respectful language: Always be respectful of the legal hierarchy by addressing people with proper titles.

Exceptions and Considerations

While adhering to the chain of command is generally essential, there may be situations where it is necessary to deviate from this structure.

• Ethical concerns: If you have concerns about unethical or illegal behavior, you may have a duty to report it to a higher authority, even if it means bypassing the immediate chain of command.

• Emergency situations: In urgent situations, it may be necessary to communicate directly with the person who can best address the issue, regardless of their position in the hierarchy.

• Documenting exceptions: Any deviations from the chain of command should be carefully documented, along with the reasons for the deviation.

By mastering the nuances of communication within the legal hierarchy, professionals can enhance their effectiveness, build strong working relationships, and contribute to a more efficient and ethical legal environment.

So, there you have it! Writing to a judge doesn’t have to be intimidating. Just remember to be respectful, clear, and stick to the facts. Hopefully, these tips and examples will help you feel confident when you need to write to a judge in the future. Good luck!