The Smokin' Gavel

The judge's view from the bench of one of the so-called Wenatchee Sex Ring cases begins in Episode 12. Chapter 10 of True Justice continues the search for Arturo Azul.

In Episode 11, Judge Small shares how a drunk driver made him a better judge and the search for Arturo Azul continues in True Justice.

In Episode 10 Judge Small shares why our podcast is called The Smokin' Gavel Podcast and Arnie Adams discovers the legal system doesn't always provide true justice.

In Episode 9, the listener learns that attorney Arnie Adams doesn't limit himself to just one woman as the story of True Justice continues. Judge Small also explains why judges are more like college presidents than attorneys.

Episode 8 relates the true story of how violence almost erupted in Judge Small's chambers because casual sex has its consequences. Listeners will also hear about the cop killer's romantic side in True Justice.

Episode 7 Judge Small begins to share stories about the truly evil people he has encountered during his extensive legal career. Listeners will also find out what happens to Officer Hernández during his encounter with Arturo Azul as we continue the story of True Justice. 

In Episode 6, the listener will find out why our justice system may not be perfect, but it is better than the alternative. Judge Small candidly explains the difference between innocent and not guilty. We also continue the story of True Justice.

Episode 5 involves two of the most difficult tasks for a trial judge: presiding over a capital trial and signing a Judgement and Sentence that orders the defendant to be executed.Judge Small will discuss the death penalty from a trial judge's perspective. We will then continue the story of True Justice. 

Episode 4 continues the story behind the writing of True Justice, and Judge T.W. (Chip) Small, Ret’d, shares how hot his Smokin' Gavel was during his career. The listener will also hear the beginning of True Justice. From the bench to the mic. Real stories. Real perspective. Real justice.

Episode 3 continues the story behind the stories.Judge T.W. (Chip) Small, Ret’d, shares what real crime inspired him to write True Justice, and he also shares his more colorful observation why judges are like gnats to the trial lawyer: sometimes irritating and annoying, but always part of the process whether the attorneys like it or not.From the bench to the mic. Real stories. Real perspective. Real justice.

Episode 2 takes a deeply personal turn.Judge T.W. (Chip) Small, Ret’d, shares the true events that inspired his first novel, Stark Justice. And then, a moment no judge expects. A killer sets his sights on the judge and his family.In this episode, you’ll hear:• The real-life experiences that became the foundation for Stark Justice• What happens when the threat of violence moves beyond the courthouse• A preview of the powerful cases and true crime stories still to comeFrom the bench to the mic. Real stories. Real risk. Real justice.judgesmallbooks.com

The premiere episode introduces you to award-winning Judge T.W. (Chip) Small, Ret'd, alongside Bailiff Madeline Rose.After serving 27 years as a Superior Court Judge, Judge Small shares why he believes now is the time to speak directly to the public. What compels a retired judge to step behind a microphone? A desire to bring clarity, context, and candid truth to conversations about crime, courts, and the justice system.This first episode covers:• Why this podcast is worth your time• What inspired Judge Small to launch it• What’s ahead, including true crime discussions and a no-holds-barred look at how the justice system really worksExpect transparent, authentic, and honest conversations from someone who’s seen it all from the bench.judgesmallbooks.com