Closing Statement
| Citation | Vol. 35 No. 1 Pg. 58 |
| Publication year | 2023 |
| Pages | 58 |
Get to know Judge DeAndrea Gist Benjamin
By Sarah Justice
Judge DeAndrea Gist Benjamin was appointed to the US Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals in February 2023. A native of Columbia, Judge Benjamin has served as an assistant attorney general, worked in private practice and was appointed to the SC Circuit Court bench for the fifth district in 2011. She and her husband Stephen have been married since 2002 and have two daughters.
When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was in elementary school, I wanted to be a dentist. I changed my mind when I realized I had an intolerance for blood.
Why did you become a lawyer?
I decided to become a lawyer after having an opportunity one summer in college to observe Judge Matthew Perry in the courtroom. It was then that I immediately knew that I wanted to be a judge. I was reminded that I had to be a lawyer first and that's when I decided to apply to law school.
Did you enjoy law school? Why or why not?
I had a good experience in law school, I am still friends with many of my law school classmates, and I have had the opportunity to serve on the court with some of my closest law school friends. The USC School of Law provided a sense of community that helped nurture my career. It was not unusual to have judges and lawyers visit the law school, speak at different events and serve as mentors. I, on many occasions, had the opportunity to speak with Judge Perry and Former Chief Justice Finney about their experiences as lawyers and judges.
What was your most embarrassing courtroom experience?
When I screamed during a hearing because there was a bug crawling on the bench.
What was your best courtroom experience?
I'm not sure if I can give an exact experience—I enjoy having students visit the courtroom and observe the judicial system in action. I was especially proud to have my daughters visit with their classes when they were younger.
What has been the most surprising or unexpected development in your career?
My appointment to the Fourth Circuit was unexpected in that there isn't a formal application process in this state and the vacancies are not scheduled. I've always believed that if you work hard and dedicate yourself to serving others, great opportunities will find their way to you.
What is your favorite thing about...
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