Striving for justice.

• Author: Weis, Joseph F., Jr.
• Position: Testimonial

The Max Rosenn Courthouse in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania is a visible reminder of a man who dedicated his life to the betterment of those who live there. To all who pass through the doors seeking justice, the building will continue to be a testimonial to a judge who spent his years working to make justice a reality. Many of the law's finest hours have been, and will be, spent there.

But brick and mortar, impressive classic columns, polished marble, and beautifully finished woodwork are, after all, mere inanimate objects that can reflect, but cannot create, the beauty and priceless value of the law. It is the work and dedication of lawyers and judges like Max Rosenn who give life to the spirit of the law. He personified the qualities that are so vital to the ever challenging preservation and improvement of the law. In him there was a confluence of dignity, compassion, integrity, and an unflagging search for justice.

Max Rosenn deserved the honors, and there were many, that were bestowed upon him by governments, organizations, and individuals throughout his distinguished career. Those who have associated with him over the years are familiar with his record of service to the country and the community. But one must wonder if the population at large grasps the extent to which what he has done has improved the world in which we live.

Without dedicated citizens like Max Rosenn, no society can progress. Indeed, without devoted citizens like Max Rosenn, no society in the long run can survive. Max was the rare sort of man who, in his own innate modesty, was unaware of his true worth, but who through his deeds has so richly earned our gratitude. His example gives us the courage to face the future's forebodings.

Although I knew of Max Rosenn's enviable record as the Secretary of Welfare under Governors Scranton and Schaffer, I had no personal contact with him during that period. The first foreshadowing of a future association with Judge Rosenn came in the spring of 1970 as Senator Hugh Scott escorted me to the Senate for my confirmation hearing as a district judge. The Senator remarked that Max Rosenn would be nominated to fill the then-existing vacancy on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals.

Senator Scott said there was some question about whether the American Bar Association screening committee would be concerned because Max was sixty years old, the highest age that was considered suitable for a lifetime judicial appointment. The guideline apparently...