Judicial Pay Debate Spurs Reader Response
I read with great interest the letter recently written by Professor Richard J. Peltz–Steele in response to the column by D.C. Bar President Tom Williamson advocating for an increase in federal judicial salaries (“From the President,” October 2012; “Letters,” December 2012).

Not only do I agree with Peltz–Steele’s position that judicial salaries are not in need of enhancement, but I found his letter to be one of the most refreshingly frank and gutsy expressions I’ve ever read from a lawyer. 

All too often we are reluctant to convey our true thoughts on whatever topic out of fear of alienating clients, supervisors, colleagues, judges, or anyone else in a position of perceived authority. Peltz–Steele’s letter is a candid reminder that there is no detriment to stating one’s true opinion fully and without restraint.

—Joseph S. Gerbasi
U.S. Department of Justice

I agree 100 percent with Mr. Peltz–Steele’s take on the circumstance of federal judge compensation. A raise in the salary of federal judges would put them in the class deserving punishment for their success, and a greater portion of their salary would then be redistributed in a tax merry–go–round that frankly leaves me dizzy.

—Tom Peri

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