Judge Joel D. Medd Profile

Judicial Profile

Judge Joel D. Medd
Judge

If you hadn't become a lawyer or a judge, what career would you have pursued?
I was in the Army as a Military Intelligence Officer. Some might say that it's a non sequitor. I had been to Panama and Vietnam and might have stayed in. Other possibilities were becoming a school counselor or working for Immigration and Naturalization Service.

How did you happen to become a judge?
While in law school, I saw a job announcement posted for the Benson County Judge, which was vacant. I thought that might be interesting. I had some great connections, as the State's Attorney there, Joe Deitchman, had played in my Law School Ping Pong tournament and knew that I could play a mean game of ping pong. He knew I didn't cheat anyway. I interviewed with the county commissioners, and commissioner Bobby Michels recommended me, so I was appointed before I graduated from law school, subject to passing the bar exam. Bobby Michels and I became close friends, and he was my pool playing partner when we won the Benson County Fireman's Tournament.
For District Judge, I interviewed with the Judicial Nominating Committee, and through the recommendation of Lloyd Omdahl, was appointed by Governor Art Link.

What do you most like about your job?
Hopefully having a positive influence on society.

What are some things most people don't know about you?
I drove my '69 Ford Torino GT back from Panama in 1971 and drove the same car to Alaska and above the Arctic Circle in 1984, and I still drive the car today. Also, most people are surprised to learn that I became a judge right after I graduated from law school. Also, I got my first judge's robe from St. Peter's church in Minnewaukan.

What do you like to do with your spare time?
I like to travel, study history, and play tennis to stay in shape.