Dade Judge Retires After 20-Plus Years On The Bench
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - A well respected Miami-Dade judge has hung up his robe.
"I knew one day when I was a lawyer I wanted to do this, from day one really. My mom, who is 100, gave me the right tools," said Miami-Dade Judge Stanford Blake who presided over his final cases Wednesday after 22 years on the bench.
Blake was known for his firmness and compassion in the courtroom.
"Judge Blake is unique in his knowledge, his logic, wit and humor," said bailiff Frank Nunez. "He is in control of the courtroom, knows all aspects of what he's handling. He does so pleasantly, even one of the most difficult cases to hear, Judge Blake makes it interesting and enjoyable."
Blake said leaving was bittersweet.
"It's not easy leaving something you love so much and walking off the bench for the last time was emotional, I have to admit," said Blake.
The judge was elected and took the bench in 1995. After presiding over a number of high profile cases, Blake moved to family court in 2009, an honor for man who hopes he's left a lasting impression.
"People are not always going to remember your ruling but they are going to remember how they were treated. If they were treated fairly then it's a home run," said Blake.
"It's been the best ride. I did it truthful, I did it honest to who I am as a person. I think I did well," he added.
Blake may be leaving the courtroom, but he's not leaving the law. He now plans to open a mediation firm.