Former prosecutor dons judge's robes

Six years ago Aaron Bazzoli first entered the Elmore County courtroom as after being appointed as the county prosecutor. Since that day, he has spent many hours in the courtroom and stood twice for election, both times retaining his seat.

On Friday, June 24, the room was filled with family and friends watching as District Judge Michael Wetherell administered the oath of office to Bazzoli as he became the newest magistrate judge for the Fourth Judicial District. Then Wetherell stepped back as Max, Madison, Masen and Myles helped the new judge don the black robe of his office.

Judge Gregory M. Culet, magistrate for Washington County, recalled seeing Bazzoli in action for the first time. Culet noted it was obvious the young man was a brand new attorney in court for the first time. He laughed as he recalled the vacant look on Bazzoli's face once the judge had made his ruling, making it clear to everyone that the young lawyer had no idea what to do next.

As he left the courthouse that day, Culet noted he saw a "beat up oxidized junker" sitting in the parking lot. It really was with no surprise when he saw the new attorney open the door and slide behind the wheel. But with Bazzoli's career taking off, it was not long before he was driving a new vehicle -- this time a sports car. That car became a "recruiting tool" as the judge and attorney coached a local (Weiser) sports team.

Culet noted the Washington County community took to Bazzoli well. He had a good feel for family, working well with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) representatives to find the best solution to problems.

Now as Bazzoli heads to the bench, Culet feels confident that the new judge will be perfect for determining cases involving family law, child protection and the judiciary.

Judge John Sellman spoke from the jury box, advising Bazzoli there were a few rules that would help him along the way.

"Rule number one, don't make the crooks mad," cautioned Sellman. He reminded the new judge to be fair and just in his rulings.

Rule number two is do not hesitate to pay attention to the clerks and bailiffs. "They have heard all the evidence with you" and might offer a slightly different perspective. But, Sellman urged, remember it is you who makes the decision.

"Rule three: speak softly and carry a big stick. But don't flaunt it. Only use it when it is necessary," said Sellman.

"Rule four is not really a rule at all. When you have a legal problem, seek out the guru. Go to Judge Epis, hear his advice. Then you can ignore it."

Judge David C. Epis joked that he also had made a list. As he and Judge Culet traveled from Boise before the ceremony, he said, they had decided to list all the good things about the new judge. "It was a quiet ride," he quipped.

Getting a little more serious, Epis praised Bazzoli, noting he had raised the level of prosecution for the county. He noted the he had found the prosecutor to be easy to work with and was confident that he will be as easy to work with as he sits on the other side of the bench. "I am sure he will serve the state of Idaho well."

As the newly sworn judge looked around the crowded courtroom, he noted that he had already spent a lot of time in the room, and now was looking forward to spending even more time there. He still remembers the first times he stood in the room, representing Elmore County.

He offered his thanks to everyone who had supported him in his journey to the bench. He especially wanted to thank Judge Sellman "for finally retiring."

He noted that Sellman had made the position a legacy, far more than a job. Bazzoli said that while he knew he could not fill his shoes, he hoped that he could at least follow in his footsteps.

Bazzoli said he appreciates being allowed to remain in Elmore County and in the community that he has grown to love, to continue working in a profession that he loves.

As he looks forward to his new duties in court -- to be sure the police are doing their job; to settle disputes civilly, he still holds the opinion that a job is what you do, not what you are. He hopes to serve on the bench with humility and respect and will try to always temper justice with mercy.