Meeting Judge Scott Miller was a very unique experience. I guess it’s a bit odd but I was thinking of my younger brother who wants to be a lawyer as well. Instead of the serious and intimidating judge I was expecting, Judge Miller turned out to be a Cornellian who wanted to discuss some of his experiences with younger Cornellians. I think the fact that he refused to be applauded speaks volumes of the type of person he is. I expected a harsher individual, especially since he practices in criminal law. Instead, Judge Miller somehow came away from certain very dark and interesting cases (there was this one case discussed that could be one of the most interesting cases I’ll ever hear) as this optimistic and “bubbly” person. Perhaps, bubbly isn’t the right word. However, his enthusiasm struck me.

My little brother wants to be criminal lawyer as well and I was wondering how does all this darkness affect a person. Although I have been away from home too long to actually construct an idea of how he deals with negativity, Judge Miller’s example seems inspirational. In addition, Judge Miller provided a brief look into how legislation works or how the relationships around Tompkins County operate. The difficulties he has faced with certain rulings and his insight on the differences in role between a lawyer and judge.