I have to admire a Judge who treats everyone the same. This Judge in Michigan has a strict no cell phone policy in his courtroom. When his cell phone rang during a trial (because he failed to turn it off), he fined himself $25 which he promptly paid. I admire integrity and am especially proud when I hear of someone in the legal profession demonstrating it.
Cellphone in court! Judge holds himself in contempt
April 21, 2013 by kimberlyhouser
In the eyes of the law 
It’s definitely a good sign when someone in the legal profession breaks the stereotype of “crooked politician” by not favoring anyone, especially by holding themselves accountable.
I found the actions of this judge to be a refreshing and light-hearted reminder that the system can be fair and impartial. Many believe, and I’m sure that it is true, that there is corruption within the justice system; in other words, that those that are on the inside such as the judges, politicians, etc. are not held to the same standards as the regular folk and that vice reigns supreme. Undeniably, there will always be corrupt people, but it is not the fault of the system. The actions of this judge are quite commendable; indeed, to hold himself to the same requirements as he does everyone else in his courtroom is a delightful confirmation that good people who believe in and uphold our justice system still exist.
I agree, I think anyone is admirable to hold everyone (even themselves) accountable. It shows a great amount of respect to his courtroom, and his duties in the courtroom. Bravo to him!
I agree, I think by this judge doing this he showed us that not all judges or law enforcement people are corrupt. It is very commendable, and shows he holds himself to the same laws that we as normal citizens are held to.
Who sets the amount of the fine?
I believe the Judge had a sign in his courtroom indicating a $25 fine for cell phones ringing in his courtroom.
Kimberly, Thanks for the reply. $25 not much, though. Would’ve been more impressive and newsworthy if he’d have put himself on incarcerated time-out like that Baltimore jurist who got in trouble over his sterner policies! 🙂
http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2012-12-14/news/bs-md-co-judge-suspended-20121214_1_jail-time-contempt-charge-judge-stone