A crowd filed into Judge James Deweese’s courtroom on Friday afternoon to watch as Brent Robinson was sworn in as the new judge to the Richland County Common Pleas Court. Robinson was sworn in by retiring Judge James D. Henson. An open house for Henson was held after the ceremony.
Robinson is replacing Henson, who has served on the Richland County Common Pleas Court for 33 years.
Before taking his oath of office, Robinson received invaluable advice from Judge James DeWeese: “I want you to understand that the oath is a big thing.” DeWeese stated that an oath is comprised of two components–a promise of loyalty and faithful service, along with calling on a divinity to witness the oath and punish any diversions from it.
“In difficult circumstances when temptations come, I want you to remember your oath,” DeWeese advised.
DeWeese added, “On a personal note, at the age of 67, I will cease being the Junior Judge of this court.”
Henson then administered Robinson’s oath of office.
Richland County Juvenile Court Judge Ron Spon also offered Robinson a word of advice when he handed Robinson his first gavel. Spon said that 22 years ago, his father, who was also a judge, shared some insight when he was just starting out as judge.
“He said I’m giving to you my gavel that I’ve used all these years. And if you examine the gavel, you will find that there are very few marks on it. He reminded me and so I remind you; a gavel is a symbol of order and decorum under the rule of law in your courtroom. If you conduct your courtroom with wisdom, at the end of your service to the people in our county, there will be very few additional marks on that gavel,” said Spon.
Robinson then offered a few remarks, thanking all those who attended for their support.
“The reason I chose this path and sought this office is because I really believe that I can make a positive difference for the people here in Richland County and that’s my ultimate goal,” he said.
He noted that he practiced law in front of DeWeese, Henson, and Spon when he worked in the Richland County Prosecutor’s Office.
“Ever since that time, I have had the opportunity and honor to practice in front of these three individuals and I am going to rely heavily on their wisdom and their examples they have set for how a judge is to act and rule and conduct themselves,” Robinson said.
A retirement open house for Judge Henson followed the swearing in ceremony.
Richland County Assistant Prosecutor Brandon Pigg was among those who attended to show his support of Henson. Pigg stated of the retiring judge, “It’s been a privilege to practice in front of him.”
Perry Township Trustee Larry Simmons said of Henson, “He’s built a good reputation. From everything I know about him, he’s tried to help people and he’s very well-respected.”
“The reason I chose this path and sought this office is because I really believe that I can make a positive difference for the people here in Richland County and that’s my ultimate goal,” said Judge Brent Robinson.
