Judge 'hung' in Burnet County Courthouse
Alexandria Randolph/Highland Lakes Newspapers
In the presence of a score of friends and legal colleagues, former district judge Gil Jones unveiled his portrait, which was placed in the hallway of the Burnet County Courthouse Annex on Texas Highway 29.
by Alexandria Randolph
Highland Lakes Newspapers
Another district judge was 'hung' in the courthouse hall this week before a score of onlookers.
The portrait of former district judge Guilford Jones was hung in the hall at the Burnet Courthouse Annex on Wednesday following a ceremony honoring the local figure.
Guilford, or 'Gil' Jones, as many refer to him, practiced law for 60 years, including service as a lawyer, 16 years as District Judge for the 33rd District Court, and most recently a legal mediator and arbitrator. He retired from the position as district judge in December 2012.
“When he made his ruling, he made his ruling on the law,” said presiding 33rd District Judge Allan Garrett of Jones. “You knew you'd get a fair shake every time.”
Evan Stubbs, 424th District Judge, also spoke to Jones' character at a ceremony held in a court room at the Burnet County Courthouse Annex in Burnet on Wednesday, Oct. 12.
“He ruled by the law, but he was kind, and I think that is the best trait you can have,” Stubbs said.
Burnet County Judge James Oakley remarked that the honor was “way overdue,” and reminded that the circular court room the group had gathered in was inspired by the insight of Jones.
“Thank you,” Oakley said to Jones. “You've been great to work with.”
Many lawyers and other members of the legal community were present at the ceremony on Wednesday, including local defense attorney Eddie Shell.
“The best thing I like about him is he liked my kids,” Shell said, “that says a lot for him. I like him as a judge… He has been so kind to our family.”
Dick Miller, an attorney from San Saba, was one of several who organized the acquisition of a portrait of Jones for the hall.
“The lawyers in this district appreciate Judge Jones. This job is stressful… A lot of judges can exacerbate that stress by being a bully,” he said. “That did not ever happen in Judge Jones' court.”
Jones, accompanied to the ceremony by his wife Jennifer, spoke with thanks to the group of friends and colleagues.
“I appreciate this moment. I appreciate what the lawyers and their staff and the other parts of the legal system do. I was so honored to be a part of it for 60 years,” he said. “I hope all of you will keep doing what you do. I can't see any good reason why you wouldn't.”
