MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – “Judge Smith is probably one of the most level-headed, even tempered, intelligent Judges that this county’s had,” said retired Judge Frank Coleman.
Coleman was a county and youth court judge in Lauderdale County for 30 years, and he’s been a friend of Judge Charlie Smith for almost 45 years.
He’s back in the courtroom today for Judge Smith’s retirement party.
“His retirement is going to leave a big hole in our legal community, but there’s plenty of young lawyers around that can step up and a lot of big shoes to fill, but we look forward to the next generation,” said Coleman.
With food, friends, and family around, the party was a joyous occasion, but for judge Smith, it was also a little somber.
“It’s a little sad from the standpoint that I’ll be leaving these people, leaving this building and the work that I do here, but it’s just an exciting day for me. I’m just happy that everybody’s here,” said Smith.
“A lot of us haven’t seen each other in a good while. Judge Smith, he’s got three Supreme Court Judges here, and he didn’t know they were coming,” said Coleman.
Judge Smith has had an impressive legal career. One that began in 1978 according to his friend Judge Coleman.
After all that time, Smith said there’s really only one word to sum up how he’s feeling.
“Fulfilling. You know, I started just as an attorney and then private practice, and I’ve worked many different jobs for the county, and as a judge, and I fell like I’ve been able to help a lot of people. I’ve built a lot of friendships and acquaintances along the way, and It’s just been fulfilling and I hope positive for everybody,” said Smith.
“We want to wish Judge Smith the best of luck in his retirement, and I know he’s headed for the golf course soon,” said Coleman.
