Several years ago, I began my career as a volunteer intern at the Town of Webb court under Judge Patrick Venetz. Now an established attorney in Syracuse, I felt a desire to share some of my thoughts on Judge Venetz as he prepares for the upcoming Town Justice election.
What always struck me while working with Pat was the genuine concern he felt for every case that came in front of him.
Whether it be a local teenager making a silly mistake or a vacationer from Long Island, Pat always had the individual leave the court room with a clear understanding of the process.
As an attorney who does a great deal of criminal defense work, I have heard countless stories from clients who don’t have the slightest idea what is happening with their case.
It is these situations that bog down the justice system and place undue burden on the taxpayers.
As my career has grown I have met a number of prominent judges involved in the organization of the 5th Judicial District (which includes the Town of Webb).
After learning of my connection with Judge Venetz, they have always given unquestioned praise of the way he handles his court and view him as a true success story for small-town courts in the district.
Finally, I am reminded of something Judge Venetz told me during out first meeting.
He believed that for many people their appearance in the Town of Webb Court would be their first and only experience with the justice system.
As such, he had a duty to present an image of fairness and professionalism so as to leave these individuals with a confidence in the process.
Since that time I have appeared in dozens of courts in this state, from the smallest barnyard courthouse to felony trials in the City of Syracuse, and I have always taken solace in the fact that the Town of Webb, a place dear to my heart, has a Town Justice who truly believes in those principles.
Ian Rennie, Syracuse
