01/05/2019
Today, I leave the bench.
While my desire was to continue to serve as Judge, I am humbled by the importance of this moment, of the peaceful transition of power, the connective tissue of our democracy.
I extended my hand to my successor, inviting him and his new staff to view the docket, sharing our internal statistics, and working to the end adjudicating cases. I am proud to pay homage to the judges who preceded me who likewise made sure to leave the Court in good order at points of transition.
The Court's only mission is justice. That is bigger than any one person. I pray each and every day that the Court will continue to serve the ends of justice, and that it will continue to be an institution that inspires the confidence and respect of the people it serves.
I became a lawyer to serve justice. I vow to you, to myself, and to God to live that every day, in whatever role I hold.
Thank you for caring about the betterment of our justice system and our democracy at large. Your personal investment in and attention to our institutions inspires me and it will motivate all true public servants. Keep the faith - more good is on its way.
Sincerely,
Erik Blaine