As a family law attorney practicing for 22 years, I applaud Hennepin County District Judge Lloyd Zimmerman for raising the issue of courtroom security.
It is not only an issue for the satellite courthouses in Hennepin County but for courthouses throughout the state.
However, I read with dismay the characterization of the transfer to family court as a "punishment" ("New job for judge who insisted on secure court," Jan. 10).
There is no area of law that has as much impact on the lives, safety and security of children than that practiced in the family court. Judges are charged with the extraordinary responsibility of protecting the physical, emotional and financial security of the children of divorcing (and sometimes warring) parents.
A judge must decide which children are truly in danger vs. which are being used as pawns.
The judge has the responsibility, and the privilege, of making a lasting impact on the life of a child by sorting out the facts and making a decision that will allow the best possible relationship with each parent.
It is my great hope that Zimmerman's statement about the transfer to family court was taken out of context and that he sees his new assignment as the opportunity to make positive and meaningful difference in the lives of children.
DANA MCKENZIE, ST. PAUL
