Klamath Falls, Ore. – One of Oregon’s longest-serving judges will be stepping down from the bench at the end of this month.
Judge Rodger Isaacson says he made one of his most important decisions back in 1974 when he was a legal assistant in the District Attorney’s office.
“There was a young, striking redheaded teacher on the jury.” Recalls Isaacson. “And I asked her out, and the rest, as they say, is history. We got married a couple years later.”
At the end of this month, Rodger will have more time with his wife Cheryl.
“I have some other things I’d like to do.” Notes Isaacson. “We have some grandchildren.”
Isaacson was elected as Klamath County District Attorney in 1981, and was appointed by then-Governor Vic Atiyeh as a judge in 1985.
Klamath County Judge Cameron Wogan notes: “Clearly the longest serving judge here now.”
Isaacson says divorce cases and juvenile matters are the toughest part of his job…
“In the family type of cases, we’re making decisions that effect people’s lives that have long-term consequences.”
He credits co-workers and staff as being the best part of the job…
“If you have any degree of success at all in life, it’s by large measure the people you work with.”
The judge says technology plays an increasing role in the judicial system…
“I don’t even sign anything half the time. Everything’s done electronic.”
Judge Cameron Wogan says he’ll miss Isaacson on a professional, and a personal level…
“I can go next door, and chat with him about work we have, or about personal things.”
Isaacson says his toughest ruling may be what to do next…
“Oh…I’m not sure…(laughs)…”
Governor Kate Brown announced this afternoon that she will appoint Klamath Falls lawyer Andrea Janney to fill the Circuit Court vacancy.
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