On January 15th, the Daviess County CEO Cohort traveled to the Government Center, as the Courthouse is still undergoing renovations. During their visit, they had the privilege of meeting with the Honorable Judge Greg Smith. The temporary relocation has resulted in tight quarters, but despite the constraints, Judge Smith warmly welcomed the cohort and shared his wealth of experience in the legal field.
Judge Smith, who primarily handles civil cases, made history two decades ago as the youngest prosecutor in Daviess County. During the session, he provided valuable insights into various aspects of court procedures, the role of a juror, his daily responsibilities, budget hearings, and the importance of being proactive in the legal profession.
Beyond legal matters, Judge Smith took a moment to commend the quality of high school education in Daviess County, emphasizing that it is on par with education anywhere else in the country. He encouraged the cohort to take an active role in their community and to consider pursuing careers in law, highlighting the current shortage of lawyers. One particularly intriguing fact he shared was that the Prosecutor is the top law enforcement officer in the county—something that surprised many in the group.
One of the most eye-opening aspects of the discussion was Judge Smith's dedication to the cause of Children in Need of Services (CHINS). He expressed a heartfelt commitment to ensuring that children are placed in the best possible situations, emphasizing that this cause is especially important to him.
Following the discussion, the cohort was given a tour of the facilities, where they observed firsthand the adjustments made to accommodate the temporary relocation. The visit underscored how everyone involved is making concessions for the greater good of Daviess County.
The Daviess County CEO Cohort extends its gratitude to Judge Smith for generously sharing his knowledge and hospitality. The visit provided invaluable insights into the workings of the legal system, leaving a lasting impression on the students as they embark on an educational and inspirational journey this year.