Big R's New Life Journey

Suddenly last Wednesday a legal ruling came down that virtually forced R to retire as of December 1. If he didn't he risks totally losing the small pension he will receive. Today, due to holidays, was his last day of official work as a King County Public Defender. We have so many mixed emotions as this was NOT something planned or that he would have chosen at this juncture of our lives. Dealing already with stressful parental health issues concerning his mom and dad, this added pressure set us whirling. It's why I just cannot keep up much with too much commenting presently. I'll be back as things settle down.

Thus, today is a tribute to a fine man....one who gave everything he had to defend those in need despite a very flawed legal system , which in the end, did not serve him well. I urged him to wear this tie that a friend had given him after he lost a ten year pension. The design elegantly says it all.

This will be long....I wanted to write here a few things a client, some co-workers, judges, and those he argued against---the prosecutors said to him in some emails. First just recently a woman he represented in a child dependency case sent him a personal note saying..."I just wanted to tell you know how grateful I am for all the work you did to help get (her child) back home to Wisconsin. There isn't enough thank yous in the world to tell you. The work that you guys did was life changing for my family. Everyone makes mistakes and everyone is capable of change. Unfortunately not everyone gets another chance and you have truly given that to my family.
Again, words cannot give my gratitude justice.
Thank you, sincerely, from the bottom of my heart." (name withheld)

a few things co-workers etc. said "I am so selfishly saddened by your retirement. You are a remarkable attorney whose expertise and generosity will be sorely missed. You have always been willy to share you knowledge and insight with a colleague in need. You have always worked tirelessly on behalf of our clients, demanding tht they be treated with dignity and respect . No mtter the unit, no matter the client, whether as a line attorney or a supervisor , you always bring the same level or skill, humility and commitment to your work.
You have taught me that every client deserves a vigorous defense, that every client'story is worthy of being told, and , that we are privileged to be in a position to do both. You have taught me that no matter how many years of experience you have, you should always be open to learning new things.
It has been an honor and a privilege to practice alongside you. I hope that your retirement brings you all of the peace, joy and contentment that you deserve.

Another said...."And, I would like to add that I have listened to Randy's interactions , expressing the utmost compassion and repect, with even the most difficult clients--he is an amazing example for all of us and has been a fantastic supervisor. Rnady you have to come back after the first so we can have some kind of party for you!

From a judge: ".....One of my pleasures
is working with bright and committed attorneys who are dedicated to the system of justice and to their clients. You epitomize one of those attorneys, Randy, and the defense bar will be at a loss with your departure. I wish you the best for this next stage of you career and life....and look forward to our crossing paths again.

Lastly from another judge and prosecutor: "Your integrity, advocacy , legal ability and care for your clients are evident, and I have always appreciated and relied on those attributes, whether on the bench or as a prosecutor. I will miss seeing you in court and hope you'll stay involved at some level."

The kind words and praise go on and on in emails to Randy. He can hold his head high as he leaves this position fully well knowing he did his utmost best in representing clients and all the supervising and training and leading of others that he could. Today begins a new chapter in both of our lives....unplanned but none the less an adventure and one we will take hand in hand together. This blip if for you Randy....a very kind, loving and decent human being.