A Discussion with Magistrate Judge James M. Wicks

This Podcast featured Magistrate Judge James M. Wicks, where he discussed his role as a magistrate, his path to get there, and advice to practitioners. Judge Wicks began discussing his various roles and positions as an attorney prior to his judgeship. He first became acquainted with the federal courts when he clerked for the Honorable Judge Arthur Spatt. Judge Spatt had a large influence on him and told him to consider becoming a Judge. As Judge Wicks stated, the good things that Judge Spatt did on the bench made it a "calling" for me to become a Judge. Judge Wicks then spoke to the extremely thorough process of becoming a magistrate judge and the difference between his role as an Article I judge from that of an Article III judge. He stated the extensive application process, which consists of two panels, interviews, and an FBI investigation. Additionally, the Judge discussed what cases he personally presides over as well as the ability for certain cases to agree for him to take over the case instead of district court judge. The Judge also advised how to navigate discovery disputes, and discussed the reputations of lawyers and how fast those reputations are built in the courts and what battles attorneys should pick.