proven track record
Here's what others are saying.
JUDICIAL TESTIMONIALS
Witness who testified in a criminal case
"I want to thank you for assisting my daughter and me when we came to your court in Lafayette. It was the first time Kelly or I have ever been in a courtroom, much less a federal courtroom. We were very nervous but you helped us to calm down and give truthful, honest testimonies. We both appreciated how you listened and maintained control of the lawyer who was a bit overbearing at times."
5+ year trial attorney (letter to U.S. Representative, in support of nomination to district judgeship)
"Both opposing counsel and I were extremely impressed by her demeanor, her capability, and the efficiency with which the entire [maritime jury trial] was litigated.
Judge Methvin was required to make several significant evidentiary rulings both prior to, during, and following the courtroom trial. In each instance, her rulings were prompt, crisp, and legally correct. There was not a complaint from either lawyer about any of these rulings having been legally inappropriate.
Most important was the fact that Judge Methvin treated the lawyers in the case with respect and courtesy. There was never any question concerning her role of leadership and direction insofar as the jury, witnesses, and court personnel were concerned but at no time did she inappropriately give the appearance of usurping the roles of the advocates. In sum, her abilities as a trial judge were outstanding in every respect."
30+ year trial attorney (letter to U.S. Representative, in support of nomination to district judgeship)
"All [colleagues interviewed] agree that, during her tenure, Judge Methvin has been uniformly fair to every attorney, litigant, and member of the general public who has entered her court. [She] is energetic. I have heard her referred to by Chief Judge Clark of the Fifth Circuit as the 'hardest working Magistrate' in this Circuit.
Judge Methvin is knowledgeable. She is quite familiar with the Admiralty and Maritime litigation which forms the backbone of the caseload in the Western District.
She possesses every qualification of age, integrity, and background... and possesses a distinguished record as a practicing jurist..."
Assistant U.S. Attorney (letter in response to inquiry regarding qualifications for higher office)
"After nine years as a federal prosecutor, I know judicial timber when I see it. A federal judge should at least be fearless, have judicial presence, control but not dominate the courtroom, and be predictable... I have seen Magistrate Judge Methvin in action. I have watched her evolve on the bench... The one overwhelming plus that Magistrate Methvin brings to the federal bench is that her judicial strike zone is steady, is proven, and can be relied upon."
20+ year trial attorney (letter nominating Judge Methvin for the 2007 Fifth Circuit Professionalism Award)
"Magistrate Judge Methvin's longstanding mission of planting the seeds of professionalism and civility on a daily basis - both by her word and deed - sets an example for all members of the legal profession to follow. In short, Magistrate Judge Methvin epitomizes the type of professionalism and sterling character for which the Fifth Circuit Professionalism Award was created to recognize."
20+ year criminal defense attorney
"I have not had many opportunities to practice our profession outside of Florida, and I was impressed with the professionalism of your offices and the courtesies of your staff."
Misdemeanor game violator
"I wish to express my sincere appreciation for amending the sentence that was imposed on me... for the game bird violation. I fully realize that your judgment was final and it was not necessary for you to take such action.
It is refreshing to know that there are people such as yourself in our judicial system who aren't afraid to admit to a mistake and are able to display so much integrity. Thank you."
PERSONAL TESTIMONIALS
Martial Arts Instructor, 5th Dan, American Shotokan Karate
"I have known [Mimi] since 1996 as her martial arts instructor... and have trained her to 2nd Degree Black Belt. During her 11 years of martial arts training, she competed at the National Black Belt League World Championships [in Colorado Springs]. She has always set very high goals for herself and has always successfully completed and exceeded these personal goals. In order to obtain a 2nd Degree Black Belt... one must train consistently for a period of 8 years, demonstrate character of high moral code as well as high respect for oneself and others. In addition to being in the top 1% of our student body, all 2nd Degree Black belts are placed into a leadership position... Mimi has performed and exceeded those goals.
Martial arts is a very diverse sport and brings together people of many different races, cultural, and economical backgrounds. Mimi has trained with our students of diverse backgrounds in a leadership position which has given her greater experience to deal with conflict resolution. She has also been an excellent role model for our lower ranking students."