Serving as a champion of justice, mentorship, and collegiality are themes that resonated from the discussion Steve Wermiel and I had with Judge Cole on December 1, 2021 during the 6th Tufts Judicial Series event.
He explained the importance of his upbringing in Birmingham, Alabama, living in a neighborhood that experienced bombings and other injustice. He explained that Martin Luther King, Jr. would routinely stay at a house a few doors down when he was in town and how those years through his first year at Tufts (1968) challenged him and the country as a whole to pursue justice and equality.
Having family members in the medical industry, Judge Cole aimed at a pre-med degree at Tufts, but then decided to gravitate more towards the law. From his time at Tufts through law school and his professional practice at the largest law firm in Columbus, Ohio (the firm's first African American partner), working at the Department of Justice, his service as a Bankruptcy Judge, and finally his 26-year tenure on the 6th Circuit, Judge Cole stated that his has always had a desire for public service.
Judge Cole explained his accomplishments in enhancing and fostering collegiality as the Chief Judge of the 6th Circuit often through simple things as getting the Judges together prior to en banc arguments, at retreats or other functions. He explained the deliberations process between panel members and the process by which the opinions are developed. He expressed his views on creating awareness about judicial appointments, the role of politics in judicial appointments, and the independence of the judiciary.
He explained that his 100+ law clerks are more than just mentees, they are like his kids in many ways. He stays in touch with them throughout their careers and finds that the clerkship relationships is one of the most rewarding aspects of his job.
As far as advice for the next generation of Tufts Lawyers, Judge Cole emphasized patience. He said that you don't need to have your whole career mapped out and then stick to it. You may have bosses or jobs that don't work and that is normal. Continue to do your best and achieve your goals.
Thanks Judge Cole for spending time with us. It was a great discussion and we were so honored to have you join us.
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R. Thomas Dunn is the head of the construction group and the partner in charge of the Providence, Rhode Island office of Pierce Atwood, LLP. He practices construction law and commercial/business litigation in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Tom is the President of the Tufts Lawyers Association. If you want to learn more about the TLA, please contact Tom at rtdunn@PierceAtwood.com.
