Political Quotes

“Alabama will lose one of its most distinguished jurists next January when Montgomery Circuit Judge Joseph Phelps steps aside. He has served as a circuit judge in Montgomery County since 1976, and has earned a reputation over the years as being thorough, fair-minded, and tough, all hallmarks of an outstanding jurist. Judge Phelps was an outstanding leader in Alabama's judicial reform movement in the 1970's. His leadership in securing support for the passage of the Judicial Article and its implementing legislation was significant. He played a pivotal role in the educational effort of getting judges and lawyers, court clerks, registrars, and all court-related personnel to understand the new system. His planning, explanation, and leadership brought about a smooth transition from the old antiquated system to the new one. Alabama will always be indebted to him for his many contributions to a vastly improved judicial system. I extend my best wishes to Judge Phelps on a happy and healthy retirement, and, as he promises, one that finds him active in the community and in legal circles.”