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Recently, former Associate Justice Bob Edmunds of the Supreme Court of North Carolina was interviewed by former Chief Justice Mark Martin. In this interview, Justice Edmunds shared his experiences as a public servant, prosecutor, private practice lawyer, and judge. He revealed that he always had an interest in being a judge, and despite his early ambition to become a trial judge, he was successful in his election to the Court of Appeals and later to the North Carolina Supreme Court. Justice Edmunds also discussed one of the cases he authored, Walker v. Fleetwood Mobile Homes, which held that a father could recover damages on behalf of his disabled daughter for a mobile home he bought for her that was unlivable.
This interview provides fascinating insight into the career of a highly respected judge and public servant.
“Law school really isn’t learning what is in the books. It is an education on how to think and it can be applied in so many ways. Not everybody, by any means, that goes to law school practices law. They wind up in all sorts of different fields. It is three years well spent and it can open doors you never imagined you might walk through”
Justice Bob Edmunds
Appointed by President Reagan
Justice Edmunds’ interest in law began when he decided to continue his education without making any career decisions. He eventually entered public service as an assistant district attorney and then as an assistant federal prosecutor, before being appointed by President Reagan to the Office of the United States Attorney.
Journey to the Courtroom
Justice Edmunds always had an interest in being a judge, and his experience as a prosecutor made him appreciate the importance of the role. He successfully ran for a seat on the Court of Appeals before being elected to the North Carolina Supreme Court.
Walker v. Fleetwood Mobile Homes
Justice Edmunds authored a number of opinions during his time on the court, but one case that stood out for him was Walker v. Fleetwood Mobile Homes. In this case, the Court unanimously held that a father could recover damages on behalf of his disabled daughter for a mobile home that was unlivable. This case established precedent and provided an important remedy for other consumers in similar situations.
Overall, this interview provided insights into the career of a highly respected judge and public servant. Justice Edmunds’ dedication to public service and his commitment to justice are an inspiration to all who aspire to make a difference in their communities. Check out the video for the full discussion