Robert H. Lacey
Description:
Robert H. Lacey of Newland, N.C., describes his background and education at Appalachian State University and Wake Forest School of Law, before moving on to talk about his career as a lawyer and judge. In this interview, Mr. Lacey discusses his service in the U.S. Navy, the increasing standards of the legal profession over the years, North Carolina politics, and outstanding mentors he has had over the years. He tells about entering private practice in Newland after finishing law school and then moving to Raleigh for three years to run the Office of the General Counsel for the U.S. Department Agriculture. He describes his experiences practicing law until 1975 when he was appointed a district court judge by Governor James Holshouser. He reflects on notable cases of his career including representing a number of defendants in murder trials and the differences in serving on the bench as opposed to working as a general practice attorney. He also speaks about the problem of alcoholism in the legal profession and his significant involvement with the Positive Action for Lawyers (PALS) program within the State Bar.
Link to Audio / Transcript: