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Lesson In Judgment: Doctors Shadow Hillsborough Jurists

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By TOM BRENNAN | The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 10, 2008

TAMPA - Doctors and lawyers are often a volatile mix.

But Hillsborough County Circuit judges hope a new program where physicians can spend a day shadowing a jurist may lead to an improved understanding of the legal system.

"We hope to answer some questions and dispel some myths," said Judge Gregory Holder, who with Chief Judge Manuel Menendez Jr. created the program.

The judges invited doctors from the University of South Florida medical school to spend the day sitting in on hearings and trials, and then discussing their observations with judges and lawyers.

"The more we let people see what we do, the more understanding they can get," Menendez said. "The more we can get out there, the better off we all are."

The program is modeled on the "white coat" programs at Tampa General Hospital and at USF, where members of the community can follow a doctor through their day.

Last year, Holder took part and shadowed a brain surgeon. Then he got the idea for a "black robe" version. It is believed to be the nation's first such judicial program and the first class began today.

The idea was readily accepted by officials at USF.

"It is always important to understand how different centers of the community work," said Donna Petersen, dean of USF's College of Public Health. "This is a nice opportunity to come together in a safe, neutral environment and exchange ideas without any anxiety or fear."

Petersen and Holder said too often the only time doctors come in contact with the legal system is as defendants in malpractice cases or testifying as expert witnesses.

"That really doesn't provide an objective view," Holder said.

Michael Parsons, an obstetrician, had a more immediate reason for participating.

"I've been called for jury duty next month and I want to see what I'm in store for," he said.

But there was also a serious purpose.

"I have always been interested in the judicial system and want to learn more about it," he said.

Petersen said doctors are like other people when it comes to courts.

"We all watch too much TV and probably have distorted perceptions," she said.

Petersen said the societal roles doctors and judges play are similar.

"At the end of the day, we are all trying to make things better," she said.

Reporter Tom Brennan can be reached at (813) 259-7698 or tbrennan@tampatrib.com.

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