Robert L. Hess, LASC Dept. 24

[Underdog]

Robert L. Hess, LASC Dept. 24 General Civil

[Avocat]

Hess is a sharp cookie. He will write detailed well thought out legal opinions when appropriate. But don't argue with him or he will let you have it. I read in the Daily Journal where he allegedly picked up a lawyer by the collar during a jury trial fter getting steamed at a lawyer for doing something he was warned not to do. Well, he doesn't look that imposing, but he does have a temper.

I know of another case where he used a technicality on a proof of service to throw out a case, probably because the losing lawyer seemed to be an ass hole. Oh well, that's why there's malpractice insurance. :p

[Perfect Pitch]

All in all, Judge Hess is a very bright, knowledgeable judge. He reads the papers himself and has a good handle on the issues. His only shortcoming is that he loves to hear himself talk. If you have an 8:30 appearance in front of him, expect to stay in court at least until 10 or 10:30.:)

[Law Monster]

I liked him. He has no problem sustaining demurrers and will focus your case. He is a bit like a mini Sohigian. He will let you argue as much as you want, he will ask questions and has a temper. I was defending a case so that may have helped me.

You can do far worse then he, e.g. a stupid judge, as opposed to an agressive judge. He made a few rulings based upon his perception of opposing counsel, basically he was liar on small inconsequential procedueral issues and tried to set me up; he also talked back to the judge. This guys credible argument therefore got wasted on his pettiness. While that could make you nervous, in all honesty, I would have won the case no matter what. The moral is, with Hess be sweet and innocent! :rolleyes: