Judge Muir Recognized for 40 Years on the Bench

More than 100 Attend 2011 Annual Banquet

Malcolm Muir, at age 96, is the oldest member of the Lycoming Law Association.  He joined the Association in 1938 and served as its President in 1954.  He was appointed United States District Court Judge by President Nixon in 1970, and he served the country in this capacity for the next 40 years.

It was the occasion of Judge Muir's 40th year as judge that caused the members of the Lycoming Law Association to recognize his achievements as the guest of honor at the 2011 annual dinner at the Williamsport Country Club.  More than 100 members and guests attended the banquet and were regaled with tales demonstrating the integrity, wit and intellect of Judge Muir.

Jack Humphrey, a former law clerk, emceed the event.  He detailed the ways that Judge Muir attacked a extensive case backlog in the 1970's, including using case scheduling orders and a practice order.  Innovations such as routine bifurcation of cases and special verdict forms in civil cases and pre-sentence conferences and procedures to insure uniform sentences were unique when implemented by the Judge, but have become common today.

Portions of an extensive series of interviews with Judge Muir were played for the audience.  In one he recounted his only IRS audit.  The audit was cut short after Judge Muir explained to the auditor the reason why he was including gifts as income on his return.  The auditor quickly recognized that he was wasting his time with someone honest enough to pay tax on gifts.

At the conclusion of Jack Humphrey's comments, the Judge was presented with Resolutions approved by the Pennsylvania General Assembly and the Senate.  Former PBA President Bill Carlucci conveyed a gift of a print of the Maclay Mansion, the parting gift traditionally given to PBA Presidents, in recognition of the fact that Judge Muir was in line to become PBA President the year he was appointed judge.

Brian Bluth, Association President gave the Judge a basket of dog treats for the judge's favorite pet and also a new brief case to replace one that is well worn.  Judge Muir was also left with the good wishes of all who attended the event.

Others were recognized at the banquet.  Past President of the Association Mike Collins was given a clock in recognition of his service.  Pro bono work by the Lycoming County Bar was cited in awards given to individuals and firms.  Patricia Shipman received the Honorable Thomas Wood Jr. Equal Access to Justice award.  Seven firms and many attorneys received the Fair Share award for providing free legal services to the poor.