If you hadn't become a lawyer or a judge, what career would you have pursued?How did you happen to become a judge?
My father, who was county judge and acting district judge for Pierce and McHenry counties, had announced his retirement at the end of the 1994 term. He did not inquire too much as to whether I was interested. It was not until later in the Spring when I approached him, and then he strongly encouraged me to run. Fortunately, I was successful. Unfortunately, my father passed-away before I was elected.
What do you most like about your job?
As I am sure with any judge, I hope that my decisions are received by the parties and attorneys as reasonable and just. So, it is nice to hear from litigants that even though it did not go in their favor, they thought I was fair. Also, I do not miss clients calling all of the time.
What are some things most people don't know about you?
I am a third generation judge in North Dakota. My great-grandfather, John Carmody, was a judge in Hillsboro and sat briefly on the Supreme Court. And as mentioned-above, my father was a judge.
What do you like to do with your spare time?
I am a sports enthusiast. I play golf (hack) and still play some baseball and basketball. I have four boys, so I'm also busy playing peace-maker or refereeing their episodes (fights). We have a cabin at Lake Metigoshe, so we like spending time there in the summer.