Exclusive: Parkland Shooting Judge Elizabeth Scherer Speaking For The First Time

[@HillaryS-fc2yi]

I can't believe this judge has had to deal with backlash like this. She did a great job and contained herself much better than myself and others could have. This is insane to me.

[@bryanbryan5214]

No she didn’t!

[@anissadiraa5310]

@@bryanbryan5214 why not???

[@jowens197]

I watched a lawyer analyze this case and she really explain what she did wrong. To the average viewer we wouldnt see it because the defense wws so obnoxious. But legally she showed bias. But i think under such tension anyone would have cracked.

[@Ibrahim-vr8rm]

​@anissadiraa5310 A judge is meant to be impartial. After the judgement she went up and hugged the prosecution. When the victims family gave their statements they addressed and attacked the defense. Mentioned their kids, and one put the middle finger up at them. The judge allowed this and had a huge fight with one of them when they brought up that it shouldn't happen. She just acted in a biased way, and after all that behavior she hugged the prosecution after they lost and didn't get the death penalty. She was biased, erratic and couldn't regulate her emotions

[@Ibrahim-vr8rm]

​@@jowens197The defense was only obnoxious when analysed through your own personal lens of what justice should be. They are there to make sure he is properly represented and defended. To the public them joking around with a mass murderer is abhorrent. He doesn't deserve any sort of kindness. But they are his defense team, of course they must have some sort of rapport with him. The one lawyer flipped the finger, it seemed like she did it at the judge but she didn't. It was during a time where the judge and jury were not there and they were just waiting for the next hearing.

[@aprilove-xoxo]

I watched this trial live and to hear that she is catching backlash like so, is unbelievable!!! She was so well spoken, and professional, for what she had to deal with! That kid is a freakin monster and did something so horrible, the judge had a job to do!

[@bytejourneycodes]

Yeah, I also thought she was quite good. To do everything in front of the cameras as well is very hard, and the defence were horrible people in my opinion

[@aprilove-xoxo]

@@bytejourneycodes yeah they were and sooo unbelievably unprofessional at times. I don’t think she was biased to the prosecution, maybe to the victims but she is human, as are we all. I applaud her, she is a beautiful human being , in my opinion.

[@briandunlap3243]

She acted extremely unprofessionally

[@paulesge2888]

​@@briandunlap3243In which way?

[@briandunlap3243]

@@paulesge2888 permitting the defense attorneys to be attacked by people giving impact statements, first saying it's no big deal if the attorneys kids get brought up and then losing her mind when an attorney said that if her kids were mentioned like that she'd have a problem, giving hugs to attorneys...

[@mirandax0x]

13:04 her not wanting to retraumatize the victims by them potentially needing to be witnesses if she would have fought that... is so thoughtful. That is the reason we need more like her. She took her pride, her position, and herself and put them second and that is somrthing not many would do

[@T_WC123]

Her lack of the required restrained judicial temperament risked retraumatizing the families again with a new trial. She had a specific role in this trial and she overstepped it. She is not a victims advocate or any type of role to give comfort to victims other than doing her job. We demand that impartiality, she didn’t show it, she left the bench, fine. But let’s not glorify what she did by acting against what she knew was required from her as a judge. None of us actually want rogue judges that believe in the importance of their feelings so much that rules can be damned.

[@cortneyeverett6927]

🗣Repent Israelites all praise to the most high YAHAWAH AND HIS SON YAHAWASHI🤴🏽🦁👑🐑🔥🛸. The so called black man, Latino, and Native Americans are the Israelites. Yahawah chosen people. That are scattered in all nations through our fathers. Making them Israelite foreigners/Scattered sheep/The multitude Yahawashi speaking: Matthew 15:24 “But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Deuteronomy 7:6 “For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth. Isaiah 14:1 “For the LORD will have mercy on Jacob, and will yet choose Israel, and set them in their own land: and the strangers shall be joined with them, and they shall cleave to the house of Jacob Isaiah 14:2 “And the people shall take them, and bring them to their place: and the house of Israel shall possess them in the land of the LORD for servants and handmaids: and they shall take them captives, whose captives they were; and they shall rule over their oppressors.” 2 Esdras 6:9 “For Esau is the end of the world, and Jacob is the beginning of it that followeth.

[@dudemorris7769]

So, a mistrial on her conduct would not warrant retraumatizing the families then? She’s lucky the verdict wasn’t thrown out & still may happen over her bias.

[@dudemorris7769]

@@cortneyeverett6927lol

[@AMYV3]

More like her 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@19malloryknox72]

An actual human judge with human emotions....rare

[@wilsonfisk6626]

Judges are supposed to be impartial.

[@nickslick75]

Sadly for you, judges are supposed to operate free from 'human emotions'. It's why this idiot was kicked out. But you're too smart to understand that, of course.

[@Romulan2469]

She was in the wrong profession. Sounds like being a teacher was better for her.

[@Romulan2469]

@@MLAustin5 It's not sexist at all. That wasn't the point I was trying to make, but it does take a feminist to always find a way to inject sexism into a subject that didn't involve any. I was saying that she acted like a teacher, because teachers, male or female, get emotional and want to lecture their students. Judges have to remain neutral. Quit the gender bias, as I didn't come here to debate sexism at all.

[@wilsonfisk6626]

@MLAustin5 She wasn't forced to resign. She resigned voluntarily. Her feelings compromised her professionalism. Did you watch the trial? The families were verbally abusing the defense more than the shooter.

[@prionnimcafee479]

The defense attorneys were deplorable so how she maintained her composure was amazing

[@Carebearstare....]

💯

[@ginapafitis1966]

💯👍

[@aportman58]

Totally agree!!! They are the ones who should have been reprimanded and penalized!

[@Remmysage]

She didn’t hold her composure is the problem.

[@YoYo-gt5iq]

With a sure losing case, McNeil had to delay, defer, delay, defer.......

[@Googlyeyes5265]

I don't understand why it was frowned opon for her , for hugging the victims familes, they need it the most, from any compassionate human, the judge is also a parent, and at the end of the day she is just human, and the world needs more humble, compassionate humans.

[@clmxxxviii]

It was frowned upon that she hugged the prosecution team because if she took a next case the defense team could call for a mistrial because she has shown bias to the prosecution team before. It’s not because she hugged victims family. This is a courtroom, not a drama show.

[@carrieannkouri2151]

The level of disrespect to the Court by the defense attorneys was disgusting.

[@sula1529]

Were they reprimanded?

[@AMYV3]

Oh no. Lol you are falling for it. Sheep

[@AMYV3]

@@sula1529 thank you. 👏👏👏👏👏

[@txangie800]

she was disgusting

[@AMYV3]

She still doesn’t get it. Someone has a power complex. She still doesn’t get it.

[@dominoediggs4790]

Also, hugging the victims was so humane and proper in my eyes. The families of those children needed that hug from you of all ppl

[@nickslick75]

Oh boo hoo. Do you have any idea how the justice system is supposed to work?

[@dominoediggs4790]

@@nickslick75 Trust me, Ol' Nikki ShE DiDnT PLaY By tHe RuLeS... I know the system and its rules I just don't play by them. Those hugs she gave them were so genuine and warm:) What you gonna do about it Ol' Nikki Boo Hoo?

[@nickslick75]

@@dominoediggs4790 Yeah, I can't argue with such logic and wisdom. You win, Einstein. Lol

[@Romulan2469]

Judges are not supposed to have humanity. They are there to do a job and be disassociated from their personal feelings. I liked her as a judge but her conduct wasn't normal for the heartless job title it requires. In some ways, perhaps AI could be better suited to the role of being a judge.

[@vaultboy1419]

@@Romulan2469 But she did her job without personal feelings. Have you missed the fact that she interacted with the families POST verdict? Some of you are dense.

[@emilycooper6539]

This is so sad! She did her best. I think she did her job well, and should’ve remained in her position as a judge. This is insane the backlash she’s getting.

[@random19911004]

There would be no use her remaining as a criminal judge. Every defendant would constantly say she is biased and refer to the parkland case.

[@Fluffylover261]

@@random19911004wonder if you would say that if it was your child

[@jojothetasmaniansassmonkey8866]

@@Fluffylover261 his/her point just went right over your head. complete non sequitur.

[@T_WC123]

Her “best” wasn’t enough for the very high bar we set for judges, who are subject to very specific rules because they have so much power. The backlash she received is good - it shows that sometimes judges will be held accountable when they act improperly. She forgot her role, is still unapologetic, and left the bench. I think that’s a good outcome.

[@aportman58]

Very sad....actually infuriating they lost such a caring judge 😡😡😡

[@jessicaredmond6770]

who’s saying she overreacted? this woman is full of grace & patience.

[@brey2705]

Probably men. The ones who think women need to be sweet and polite and that defending ourselves at all makes us crazy.

[@sophocles1198]

The people who watched the portion of the trail where she was scolding the defense attorney like he was a wayward child because she thought he threatened her children (he clearly didn't).

[@ArmaunDidIt]

She obviously held a bias. No judge should act like they are family with the victims or else they should not be in charge of the case.

[@RoroNoah-t8e]

Justice doesn’t come from emotion. Any law student will tell you that. She violated a lots of rule during ruling and hearing.

[@jessicaredmond6770]

@@sophocles1198 but you still don’t bring up a judges children in court like that is BEYOND inappropriate

[@jilladams2718]

She should not apologize or admit any wrong doing. A male judge would never do that. She did amazing under the circumstances.

[@ronniemoore9289]

Why do women want to emulate the worst characteristics of men and call it feminism?

[@random19911004]

A male judge wouldn’t have reacted the way she did (overly emotional)

[@ronswansonsdog2833]

@@random19911004You must not watch too many court proceedings here on KZbin. Give it a try and you’ll see a lot of male judges who get away with far worse than she did.

[@Striker885]

@@random19911004exactly, we’ll, not one worthy of being a male. Men aspire to greater values in life like stoicism especially under scrutiny.

[@Fluffylover261]

@@random19911004thank god there are humans among us.

[@kaylalarrave2019]

I pray she recovers as well as the families. She sacrificed her happiness and mental health to serve justice to these children. Thank you Judge💞

[@MericaMotherFucker]

She's not a judge, 🤡

[@royduffey668]

Can't recover from breaking the law and violating the civil rights of a defendant

[@royduffey668]

Can't recover from breaking the law and violating the civil rights of a defendant

[@joebidenhh153]

Are you stupid?

[@elizabethwitt2621]

​@@MLAustin5We're talking about the justice system in Florida. No one should be surprised.

[@justtennischannel2]

Judge Liz was right 💖 You are loved and admired forever. You showed the world some added values: a big heart, kindness, and a sense of humanity-greetings from Slovakia. // The world needs more judges like you.

[@jakeplumber1373]

Lol only failed abortions admire her.

[@heartmountain1696]

Definitely!!!!💯

[@liledd1307]

Melania Country

[@justtennischannel2]

@@liledd1307 No, Melania is from Slovenia.

[@iquitnow]

Phshh

[@bed5513]

I think she handled her courtroom brillaintly. Unfair that she felt the need to step down.

[@marywilson5192]

These are the kind of judges we need. For her to basically be forced to resign is disgraceful. This was a very emotionally charged & draining trial that lasted 5 freaking years! The Bar should have taken that into account and let it go. We're all human and sometimes even judges have feelings.

[@T_WC123]

No, we don’t need judges who lack the emotional restraint in a courtroom to present the requisite judicial impartiality. She risked the validity of the conviction with her conduct and it’s appropriate that she left the bench. Now she is spinning her failing as a strength and some of you are buying it. 🤷

[@cortneyeverett6927]

🗣Repent Israelites all praise to the most high YAHAWAH AND HIS SON YAHAWASHI🤴🏽🦁👑🐑🔥🛸. The so called black man, Latino, and Native Americans are the Israelites. Yahawah chosen people. That are scattered in all nations through our fathers. Making them Israelite foreigners/Scattered sheep/The multitude Yahawashi speaking: Matthew 15:24 “But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Deuteronomy 7:6 “For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth. Isaiah 14:1 “For the LORD will have mercy on Jacob, and will yet choose Israel, and set them in their own land: and the strangers shall be joined with them, and they shall cleave to the house of Jacob Isaiah 14:2 “And the people shall take them, and bring them to their place: and the house of Israel shall possess them in the land of the LORD for servants and handmaids: and they shall take them captives, whose captives they were; and they shall rule over their oppressors 2 Esdras 6:9 “For Esau is the end of the world, and Jacob is the beginning of it that followeth.”

[@rumpelstiltkinn]

​@@T_WC123Agree. The case was too big for her.

[@AC-nd7wc]

@@T_WC123 absolutely!

[@ltelpc]

She shouldn't have resigned. I am sure she has learned valuable lessons. But if anyone put the case in jeopardy it was the defense attorneys. To think judges are somehow totally immune to being triggered or can 100% remove emotions, experiences from all aspects of their lives particularly work even in the judicial system is ridiculous. I think under the circumstances she did the best she could and handled herself pretty well considering the caliber and heaviness of the case.

[@Wens0808]

She was not respected as a Judge and it was disgusting to see. She had to fight a group of mean girls in front of the country!! She did the best she could. I respect her.

[@bridykes9986]

They flipped her off and acted like children these parents suffered enough and bringing up her kids these assholes knew what they were doing I thought she owned that trial considering how terrible some of the stuff they had to relive

[@twilit]

@@bridykes9986they weren’t flipping her off it was at camera during court not in session

[@TwitterFingers873]

lol she was the mean girl, that's why she is no longer a judge. she made the entire case about her...

[@Remmysage]

When did she have to fight a group of men?

[@bridykes9986]

@@twilit they knew what they was doing 😆

[@tigerlily102511]

She acted in response to the unprofessionalism, ignorance, and immaturity of the defense team. Their lack of respect for the judge, the prosecutors and victims' families was absolutely disgusting. Flippin the bird to the camera, joking and laughing with the defendant, whispering amongst themselves and snickering. Miss McNeill is absolutely disgusting, getting offended when being called out for her unprofessional behavior, stating that the judge was disrespecting her in front of her client. McNeill was laughing and joking with her massmurdering client while disrespecting the judge so Judge Scherer was absolutely in the right for completely shutting McNeill down. Its so hypocritical that the public defender's office says Judge Scherer violated rules YET the entire defense team threw the entire rulebook out when they decided to be disrespectful, unprofessional, immature and ignorant.

[@GirlfromFinland]

The flipping bird was in the end of the trial when the judge had already created a very toxic environment from the beginning. Nothing else what the defence team did was unprofessional. It’s not unprofessional to discuss with your client. This whole case was so political that no matter what the defence team did ppl would have hated them.

[@T_WC123]

The judge’s actions are not defensible even if the defense team was worse. Whataboutisms don’t justify anything. A judge acting improperly risks having the trial thrown out and everyone having to do it all over again. It’s not about how the judge feels on a given day - they are expected to act as dictated by the rules they know govern them. Hugging the prosecution was utterly ridiculous; they all knew better but still engaged in that conduct in a courtroom on national television. Leaving the bench was the right decision. Spinning yourself as being a victim of caring too much is super cringe.

[@cswain5551]

She acted... for the cameras

[@Alitawc1]

The church was called up to represent a killer. And in this light I wish it had gone past the jury and straight to the judge and I'm sure the judge would have definitely given him the death penalty without remorse. And yet still 2024 we are still hearing of people going into schools and killing people and they never learn. I like the judge I think she was doing her job she won't she deserves respect especially from the people who she has to listen to on both sides. The people who were in the world were the ones who have been in the front that fingers up at the judge and at the other people the prosecuting team and the defense team very immature and very bad and it was on TV. To somehow a bill or something has to be passed or when it is as bad as this and the person has been captured then it goes straight to the judge and the judge decides whether it's a death penalty or a life Discharge did nothing wrong and it's a shame that she gave up and yet she's still doing her job, families for the judge the jewelry for everyone. Except the killer cruise and the the team hopefully in the future it will go straight to the judge and the judge will be the one to dictate what happens to that person male or female age old age or young. If it's anything to do with a school shooting or something similar then they should get the death penalty and the death penalty should be made quickly I should make being made not 15 or 30 years ahead it should be done within the next year. So therefore they're not famous anymore the person who killed those people then a famous they didn't get away with it they got cool they went to court they got the justice system and the judge put them to death so they should be killed in the same year instead of making the families continue and plus the judge and the jury and everyone else they shouldn't be a jury in this particular case the judge is more than education 0 listen to the 30th and find out all the information and put her own he or she of what she thinks and if the family is asking for the death penalty then give the death penalty and the person whoever it is should be killed within no excuses on how much does most people who get the death penalty they will about 15 to 30 years they will they will end up having to live in concert in by themselves ink in jail and in the taxpayers money taxpayers money or go better on the injections do they kill people with people who should no longer be living on this on planet people who should be judged by the judge with all the information and if a death penalty is there then give the death penalty maybe one day America will not have half of these problems where children go in shooting other children because they want to if Cruz can get 10 other people can get away with it people from every country in the world has to set an to these idiots who want to be famous the bad reasons and focus on it they've got the death penalty given the death penalty give me the last mail the people who are still alive today can be there to witness while he is being killed

[@SunFlower-sf1go]

She acted like an immature teenager. She brought attention to herself in a negative way from the glamorous makeup to the tit for tat in the courtroom. She has no place in a courtroom.

[@rayquanbutler6774]

She did the damn thing. I watched this trial daily and she had so much grace and patience. I hope she lives a happier more fulfilled life despite the setback

[@joanne6086]

She has nothing to apologize for. She is a wonderful Judge.

[@kcfriend5021]

She is a wonderful judge. The defence was absolutely unprofessional. Discussting defence lawyers.

[@shilobutton5485]

No she isn't. She's an emotional woman who can't control her feelings in her courtroom

[@GirlfromFinland]

@@shilobutton5485so many uneducated lay ppl in this chat who have no idea about impartial justice system.

[@byronjaffe518]

I was up at Parkland for the memorial service the day after the shooting. I have worked with some of the victims family members for the last 5 years on community issues. They are very strong. I give credit to this Judge for her decision to resign so the victims families didn’t have to come back to court and testify as witness in her reprimand case. The only person who is 150% responsible for this terrible tragedy is the monster named Cruz. Sadly he gets to live , and avoid having the state execute him.

[@BlueDauntless]

He’ll also never be free. So while he may live, he lives in a cage. And lives with what he did.

[@Fitkid7672]

@@BlueDauntlessgood point. He’s being punished either way.

[@caramelbilquees]

​@@BlueDauntlessAlso being beaten up and passed as a boy toy to all the big prisoners he gonna wish he got the death penalty

[@Miamilifestyle1]

She can hold her head high. She did her best and respected the families. The defense attorneys were disgraceful. I wish she wouldn’t regret hugging the families.

[@MichelleKavarnos]

Completely agree!

[@Fluffylover261]

So do I , putting up your middle finger and laugh at moments is a disgrace and an embarrassing and not to say a disrespectful way to the court. Not to mention to the families. It’s not a defense attorney way to act that way and that lady should be fired and taken her license away.

[@nicolespencer3064]

She said she did not regret hugging the families. She regrets that other people perceived it, as if she wouldn't be fair in future trials.

[@Fluffylover261]

@@nicolespencer3064 one thing has nothing to do with the other. Cause she hugged the parents doesn’t mean she can’t run a courtroom or an other trail. She only proved she’s a human being

[@nicolespencer3064]

@Fluffylover261 Definitely agree! I think it's awesome that she hugged them instead of just a hand shake. Really, we need more people like her! I was just letting the original poster know what she said. :)

[@hollymarie6764]

I am shocked to learn what happened to this judge after this case. I thought she did a great job. I thought the defense team acted like complete clowns and she did what she needed to do to keep her court in line. It speaks volumes that the families stand by her.

[@aportman58]

Same here! I watched almost entire trial and had no idea they (BAR) had brought all this crap toward her!!!

[@sula1529]

Did those lawyers get reprimanded for their behaviour?

[@AlexCentury]

No. She was openly and nakedly biased in favor of the prosecution.

[@adamt5]

I think a lot of those in power don't like seeing a strong woman.

[@nickslick75]

Yes, it does 'speak volumes'. It shows she was biased.

[@rhondar.]

I really liked this Judge. I thought she was fair, take no bull & got on with time. I like that she wanted respect because I felt she respected others. She handled herself well when the lawyer spoke out about "If it was your child (judge) How would you feel"? You just asked a mother( the judge) how she would feel if it was her child & expect her to be calm!? The Judge was right by telling that lawyer to get out. Judge Elizabeth showed empathy, she listened, to both sides, never waffling in her decisions.

[@itsmebd1]

She was amazing. Period. Seventeen people, mostly children, slaughtered at point blank range. I don’t know how she made it through. And those families needed her compassion. Bravo for being human.

[@megamonster1234]

She's a judge. She's not supposed to let what the defendant did cloud her judgment. If she can't handle, then give it to someone else ho can. If you want justice systems to be presided over by people who let deplorable crimes get to them, then you might as well overhaul our justice system. Yes, I know it can be hard to regulate emotions when it comes to these horrific acts, but that's why judges get paid the big bucks and a lot of respect. They're supposed to be held to a higher standard than the rest of us.

[@runnerbeach1]

As a high school teacher in the area, I agree with most comments made here. When the jury came back with their verdict, I felt betrayed. Judge Scherer, thank you for being human. 🌼

[@justthatgirl-ct4jo]

I know people aren't going to like this, but I listened to this ENTIRE trial. While I was cleaning, driving, and any chance I got. Putting my emotions aside, Nikolas literally had issues from day 1. He didn't stand a chance from the day he was conceived. I agree with the verdict. That guy has something very mentally wrong with him. I agree with the defense on that one. We can't go executing people who just aren't there mentally. His mom abused him in the womb. He had an obsession with violence and death since before kindergarten. Did you listen to all that testimony?

[@GirlfromFinland]

@@justthatgirl-ct4joI am certain the most of the ppl didn’t and still comment. They just hated the defence team because they defended NC. I watched without knowing anything about the case beforehand and I immediately paid attention to the bias and rude behavior of the judge. This woman is so mean and rude.

[@justthatgirl-ct4jo]

@@GirlfromFinland Yes, before her behavior even became national news I was picking up on things during the trial. Her decisions on motions were mostly favorable for the prosecution. Her attitude was completely different between two parties. I really was thinking, "Is she going to get in trouble for this?" I have nothing against her personally and it may have just been the stress of such a high profile case. She had to have been under extreme pressure, but as a judge, you have to be able to handle yourself professionally. She needs to take a look at Judge Jennifer Dorrow (sp?) from the Darrell Brooks case. That judge was absolutely amazing.

[@GirlfromFinland]

@@justthatgirl-ct4jo I am also a fan of Dorow. Such a great role model for women.

[@jakeplumber1373]

Yeah you can resign now.

[@jackpatrick676]

Even if the Florida Judicial had issued a reprimand, she was able to reestablish the reason why everyone, who was in that room, was in that room, that someone had done something wrong. He ripped those families apart- and she at least stood up against the defense and their low ball game. She’s the right judge in today’s world.

[@Remmysage]

And has the defense LOST it would be on her hands..

[@steelhurricane4041]

That must have been enormous strain on the judge. 5 years is a long time.

[@That_AboElHamd]

Can someone pls tell me why she couldn't hold them in contempt ? This is outrageous and definitely aimed at her because she is a beautiful woman.

[@pedanpontif]

She probably would not hold them in contempt because it would delay the proceedings. Also, if she overreacted, it probably would the defense grounds for an appeal if he got the death sentence.

[@annieann6347]

Much respect to this judge.

[@Lexi61689]

She did amazing. She handled everything well and called things out when it was necessary!!!!! She deserves better!!!

[@josephdillon7420]

I watched this trial and everything she said is true, the defense was a joke. The middle finger thing was so unprofessional on their part. And this was such a long trial of 5 years and very hard on everyone. She did the very best she could under the strain of the ordeal. I was hoping he would get the death penalty.

[@Great_Lakes_Discus]

The trial only lasted a couple weeks

[@64batsalex]

@@Great_Lakes_Discus All of the pre-trial motions and hearings lasted 5 years. As said in the video, she was assigned this case the day after the massacre.

[@BlueDauntless]

Her best isn’t good enough to be a judge.

[@angelahartman3272]

She was an amazing judge. It's really a shame that she stepped down. She may have been a bit too emotional at times during that trial but it would be hard for anybody with a heart not to be. Its been said that sometimes our greatest weaknesses are also our greatest strengths. I think that is exactly what made her such an amazing judge & unfortunately, exactly what made her a target to some. I sincerely hope that this next chapter in her life brings her nothing less than happiness, peace & fulfillment.

[@mopground]

devoid of professionalism, overly emotional to the point where she misheard things. not a good judge

[@MericaMotherFucker]

She was a horrible judge.

[@chasingcharlatans]

i agree! she shouldn’t have stepped down

[@mattheww797]

horrible judge.

[@casst346]

I don't think she should be apologizing for anything! This judge was a class act!

[@danpartridge8584]

I remember streaming the trial in the background while at work each day. I was (and continue to be) an enormous fan of Judge Scherer and her ability to balance empathy with professionalism in her courtroom. I hope she has many more years practicing and reaching her full potential 🤘

[@scat4me]

This Judge deserves nothing but praise. She went above and beyond and showed considerable constraint and compassion. It's an absolute disgrace to see what she has had to go through. I admire her considerable thoughtfulness and fair evaluation of her actions. The defense team could learn a lot from her. SHOULD learn a lot.

[@Remmysage]

Ya and had he got the DP she’d have made it so it can get over thrown. She deserves praise for that? No way.

[@lissadawes4243]

Nothing but praise? I don’t think so. Hugging prosecutors was absolutely wrong and even the families. Maybe writing a letter to them would have been appropriate. Quit fawning over her. It’s a bad look. She was rightly reprimanded.

[@scat4me]

So the Judge showed some human compassion for people she has worked with and for a trial that was obviously very draining and heart-wrenching. She was reprimanded and yet the assassin gets life, something that he deliberately took away from 17 innocent children and has devastated their families. I wonder what your opinion would be if one of those souls was your child.

[@Sofia-uc9jq]

may God bless this woman, she is truly admirable and a good role model for the younger generation, we need more people like you Judge Liz! humanity over everything

[@shruggs5279]

Judge Scherer is the first judge that I have seen actually shown her human side. It was beautiful.

[@judeparise7130]

She handled one of the worst defense teams on the planet. She's a pro

[@angharadswansea9343]

The problem in that court room was the complete lack of respect by the defence lawyers. They kept yapping at her even though she kept telling them to sit down. She should’ve had them in contempt of court and locked up.

[@elizabethprater-hughett8021]

Exactly!

[@prionnimcafee479]

Exactly 👍

[@suelawson7273]

From the little I've watched, I wonder how it would have gone if there was a male judge there. The defence definitely pushed back at her in such a disrespectful way 🤔

[@hotintxs]

@@suelawson7273yes, absolutely.

[@Hippieskippie]

This woman got a raw deal. I would have never fired her. Many blessings for your future ❤

[@tenacious1]

He was definitely inappropriate. That was very disrespectful to speak to a judge that way. He was way too familiar

[@bettlup]

I'm not the one that sees misogyny in every little thing, but something tells me he would not be acting like that if the judge was male. And i may be wrong, of course. But the amount of times she had to tell him repeatedly to sit down and do his job properly. And to the men that came to the stand right after him and said infamous "nobody in this court room had to endure what we had to endure" also.

[@briandunlap3243]

@@bettlupthe parents making victim impact statements were bringing up the attorney's children. That lawyer did nothing wrong by simply saying the judge would react differently if it was her kids being brought up...and he was right, because she immediately acted like a child and threw a tantrum

[@bettlup]

@@briandunlap3243 she admitted it, and explained this reaction. And also resigned as a result. She did overreact and he was also inappropriate, two things can be true at the same time.

[@YourFavoriteFrenchCanadian]

SHE WAS.

[@ashleyunderwood4855]

It’s not “her” truth. It’s just the truth.

[@starrnicol9617]

I liked her before this and now I absolutely adore her. I don’t believe anything she did in that trial was inappropriate or uncalled for. Beautiful woman inside and out as far as I’m concerned ❤

[@lobowynnTV]

This emotional judge makes her above all other judges she is showing humanity..she is a professional first but is a wonderful judge

[@rimaaelita]

She doesn’t have correct attributes and experience just because her father is a lawyer she’s not entitled to be a judge

[@kkrb1212]

The fact that she had to resign from her job is insane and I hope she enjoys working with her dad ❤️

[@MichaelJones-yx4zv]

She did not do NOTHING wrong and was actually a Lot nicer than most judges would have been. If she was a man we wouldn't even ask her those questions!

[@emileepini2311]

To everyone who is criticizing her: maybe try to understand what she went through in this case every day for 5 years. It’s very easy to criticize someone when you have no skin in the game and don’t have to worry about doing better than the person you are criticizing. This mentality will not get anyone far in life. Its so easy to be critical of someone when you don’t have to walk in their shoes. It’s so much easier to talk the talk than to walk the walk.

[@2cutelittlegirls763]

I LOVE her. She's human and was thinking with her heart and not her head. The amount of respect that the court & families had to show that murderer is deplorable & unfair. RIP to those beautiful children & thank you Judge Scherer ❤

[@MsTinkerbelle87]

Which makes her an awful judge. She’d be a wonderful court victim advocate lol

[@annapires1879]

I love the vulnerability and humanity of this judge. Respect!

[@niloo_atribecalledlove]

Judges are supposed to remain IMPARTIAL. 😂

[@Bimby-b]

If it's true that she didn't contest the supreme court to spare the families from being witnesses, that is so selfless. She lost her career to protect them, a career she worked her entire life for. What a lovely person.

[@whatamiwatchng582]

Can we talk about her beauty equals her intelligence. Amazing woman

[@mimioweida9333]

She had to see pictures of the bodies of all the victims and went to the building where it happened and witnessesd the unimaginable pain of all the families, it will likely stay with her for life.

[@Justaman183]

The strength this judge showed during and after this trial is inspiring. It was an atrocious crime and we all wish it never happened. I wish her luck in her future endeavors!

[@lf3541]

This Judge should know that two wrongs don't make a right. She wildly overreacted with the defense attorneys at different points in the trial. Thinking with her heart and not her head, as she admits, is NEVER appropriate. The law should be devoid of passion or prejudice.

[@idontknowmuch3441]

I agree. All these comments saying it’s ok she’s human! no no it’s not ok. Judges are in positions of immense power not to be taken lightly

[@bigbellysally1073]

Never should she apologise ❤ she did her best during and after to protect the families from the shocking actions of the defence.

[@Remmysage]

When your a judge “your best” is not good enough. You’re a judge, you don’t get to just do your best. You should do “the best.”

[@vincentferrigno9726]

She handled them completely perfect and the defense attorney's acted acted like they were taught the law by darrell brooks. And Elizabeth has absolutely NOTHING to apologize for..

[@danielshifflett9231]

She was real during the Trial. She was professional and was pushed to do what she felt was right. She is what is needed.

[@jenni_0907]

I watched this trial from Australia and thought Judge Scherer did an Amazing job given the utter disrespect from the defence lawyers towards her, the victims and their families. Well done! You are one of the best Judges I’ve watched. I’m sorry to hear what you were put through after this trial, they’ve certainly lost a great Judge.

[@jenni_0907]

My comment acknowledged that she’s a great Judge. Luckily she’s both a great Judge and a great human being, professionalism and empathy. Not to mention she has the patience of a Saint.

[@urospeteh2637]

Reply to your comment included one of the most lamest sentence i ever read in my life. I was like omg, smh. It's not her job to be a good human... Like really? I couldnt believe my eyes and first asked myself was that coming from a trol or she/he really have said that. Anyway, i totally agree with what you said and i am fully on your side.

[@random19911004]

I looked from Australia and can confirm she was biased and wrong. So emotional.

[@random19911004]

I looked from Australia and can confirm she was biased and wrong. So emotional.

[@Materialgirl_3]

I’m not being silly but do you know any judges or criminal lawyers personally? I don’t know any judges so I won’t claim to but my child’s father is a criminal lawyer that works for the D.A. I know that she cannot take sides at any point or favor one side should I say. It’s a big NO NO. Also sitting in her position she should not be hugging the prosecutors

[@lomix1106]

She has my respect. She is human.

[@niloo_atribecalledlove]

She’s supposed to be a judge. She’s not getting paid to be a human. 😅

[@Remmysage]

Judges can’t be human. That’s even people (innocent) like you and I accidentally get put behind bars. Do you want a “person” deciding our fate?

[@lomix1106]

@@niloo_atribecalledlove Too bad there are no aliens to serve as our judges. Regardless of whether you like it or not, no matter what kind of power someone possess, they are still human.

[@lomix1106]

@@Remmysage So what are judges supposed to be aliens? Humans created our laws, humans enforce those laws, and humans are supposed to abide by those laws. Was some of her remarks in the courtroom a bit over the top, sure. But as you can see from the result of the trial, that did not hinder the defenses ability to receive the outcome they wanted. In a perfect world (which we don’t live in and never will) would it be a good thing if judges could turn off all natural human emotion like a switch both internally and externally, that’s a debatable. But regardless, in this instance, she has my respect.

[@michellearroyo816]

We need more judges like her such a beautiful person

[@thelegendarymskatlynn]

so are the defense attorneys going to be held accountable as well? their behavior was much more disgusting to the court than this judge ever was. i am glad to know that our justice system has human beings floating in there somewhere.

[@jarviscroatia2420]

The educated and experienced woman had to preside over a case over a mass murdering child killer. For five years having to deal with those immature public defenders and knowing that the mothers and fathers ofntj victims were there every day… this woman puts humanity and morals above all else.

[@danielhernandez3831]

You should see her feet.

[@cindyleasure6901]

She was a fantastic judge. To hear the testimony and endure this tragedy was enormous. The defense attornies were a disgrace to our country.

[@T_WC123]

A fantastic judge doesn’t do the things she was disciplined for doing, stay unapologetic, and leave the bench. She messed up.

[@jakeplumber1373]

If she was a fantastic judge, why did she not remain impartial, hug the prossecustion, and be forced into retirement?

[@dudemorris7769]

You’re a disgrace to our country & your comment aligns with the same impartiality and bias this judge was found guilty of. From day 1, she was asked to step down due to how she was seen talking much differently to the two sides.

[@ItsWAWGaming]

bro, abunch of kids got got bruh, this was a bit different from any other case.@@jakeplumber1373

[@pedrocarrazana1157]

She is truly a light. This was not mishandled by her. May god bless her and let her know always that her public service is met with gratitude.

[@jobarmure6169]

She can't control her anger and that's okay, when she speaks she's too emotional, and a judge should be the opposite of that. he must remain calm in all circumstances. It's not because she's a woman, I'm a man and I will be more emotional than her and have absolutely no control over my anger.

[@keydenino8164]

I mean neither does trump and people praise his lack of filter as “oh he tells it like it is” so I definitely do believe it’s man v woman

[@angelgiles5852]

She resigned so the families didn't have to relive the trial. Protect this woman at ALL cost!

[@michellecavaliere8701]

This judge deserves hands up to her.... She has empathy she is human...she is a mother... She showed respect to those parents... She did the right thing by resigning.... I would not want to work for anyone who which say she was wrong by embracing those parents.... Those who think she is wrong....need help.... I cannot even imagine how this woman day after day for five years... got any sleep...I can picture her up night after night reliving how those poor young children died ...looking at all these r pictures...and then looking at the faces of the parents crying..and hurting every day for five years ..and people want to be mad because she hugged those parents....i guarantee you...those people that are mad could not have done what she did... without falling apart....so judge thank you for your service... You did the right thing...sorry you are gonna have these memories of these kids they were just babies in your dreams ... But just know you did the right thing.... May all these precious children rest in peace

[@ModedeScode]

She handled that case very unprofessionally

[@Carebearstare....]

She is and was amazimg! Florida lost a great judge! Such a classy woman.❤

[@gingahNinja624]

She did NOT over react.. They should have more respect for the judge.. The defense even dressed like bums

[@joshualee7460]

It’s obvious the defense baited and provoked her frequently in the hopes of a mistrial. I’m sure at the time they thought it’d be near impossible for the shooter to get life. McNeill (the lead defender) played that tactic a little too well

[@joshualee7460]

It is very unfortunate that she lost her career over it. She was very compassionate to the families. And I think none of the families complaining about her says something about the job she did.

[@EffSharp]

Nope. Defense just trying to defend. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@jackwilson5542]

Yeah, sadly like the attorney in Devil's advocate movie they were excellent at their job. I thought no way in hell that monster could avoid death penalty.

[@taylor_gray]

Elizabeth Scherer should be praised as a National Hero!! Brave, empathetic, kind and HUMANE!!! Thank you for your services, may you live a happy stress free life post career. Much love 🤍

[@saintmay1952]

🤔

[@Ncstatewife]

She is a truly graceful and kind person. As awful as this case was I am glad she was the judge that was over the case.

[@Bailey2006a]

I thought she did a great job . The defense attorneys were extremely disrespectful and baited her into arguments. If she sat in New York courts , she would have gotten a medal . Our judges do not tolerate this kind of crap.

[@EatHere]

No idea she resigned or that there was that much controversy over this. Being filmed adds a whole other level of stress and scrutiny.

[@CherryZ]

5:41 I totally agree with her actually. The lawyer 100% brought her kids into this by saying "What if it was YOUR kids". I was watching this with someone and when the lawyer said that we both laughed because we knew how rude and tone-deaf that came across. I also want to remind people that the defense counsel was joking, laughing, and even flipped the judge off during trial (yes, actually flipped her off when she thought cameras were off of her). The defense counsel was a bunch of sorry pricks and I was not surprised at all when the judge went off on them. I completely understand, however, that due to the rules and procedures of the court, the reprimanding did need to be done outside the jury's presence to maintain juror impartiality at all costs. She deserves more of a slap on the wrist for this small procedural mistake as opposed to the mega backlash she got and her feeling forced to resign.

[@ForestSageStyles]

I watched every step of the parkland trial. I thought she did a fantastic job. I have so much respect for her. She is right the public defenders were shamelessly rude, unprofessional. Not only towards the judge, but all of the people who had to relive a tragedy again. This judge has more class in her pinky than all the people who represented the shooter have in their whole bodies.

[@joelhall5124]

She wasnt suited for this and is making excuses for unprofessional behaviour. And then shes feigning emotions because she knows she can't answer questions honestly. She's childish and wanted to make a scene for the cameras.

[@gracie910]

I was so impressed by her. Can u imagine what she saw from this monster. She will never be the same. At the end when she hugged the families that’s called being loving and caring . She was wonderful. ❤

[@gaae2000]

The defense are a bunch of bullies which are the perfect attorneys for the killer.

[@noahstanley5891]

That trial as a whole 9:36 was orchestrated very poorly, professionally, legally and administratively. I feel if either more senior attorneys with greater professionalism and decorum, judicial staffing and perhaps even a more senior seasoned judge would have changed the scenery completely. Having all junior attorneys and staff and allowing it on TV should have never happened. Some senior officials should have intervened early on , called it a mistrial and began again with no television. There is no legal requirement that says it must be broadcast nationally in real-time.

[@truecolors5669]

They wouldn't say her emotions got the better of her if she was a man. That's A. I hope she filed her own charges against the public defenders, B.

[@-crazypants-3199]

This is so crazy to me. The whole trial i had thought she was being TOO patient And Ive also to this day never seen a judge allow what she did in the court room And still kept the trial going without a hiccup.

[@greenguitar731]

why is the audio and editing so weird in this video? it seems like they uploaded a draft version

[@phuonghuynh5946]

I don’t know if a judge who is emotional, sensitive, and easily offended/triggered by lawyers and case parties is the best level headed and unbiased person to rule in lengthy criminal trials… She’s compassionate and strong willed with a sharp tongue, she’ll probably make an amazing prosecutor

[@smwoutdoorfishingadventures]

I would have been pissed off also if the defense were acting like it was a game. This idiot killed 17 and wounded 17. I know she wished she could have done more but did what the law would let her do. Flipping off the cameras and Cruz laughing. Having Cruz sister testify. Let her get out of jail for that. Lock her up for good also

[@sophocles1198]

She's fortunate she could parachute into her family's law firm as a partner. Her treatment of the defense was clearly beyond the pale.

[@zoeykeller9083]

All the power to you, Judge Scherer. The fact you put the families before you... all the blessings to you.

[@cdelane3335]

People must not understand how judges are supposed to act. She knows she did wrong and why she stepped down. Not everyone is cut out to be a judge that was the best thing she could've done. I wouldn't be able to do it either because I would be like her and wear my emotion on my sleeve. It took away from the trial and put focus on her and those attorneys. She got on the level with the defense instead holding herself to a higher standard. She was the judge her job was to be impartial to both sides.

[@mako3197]

Yeah I have a lot of empathy for her but her conduct was wrong. She was right to step down, not excusing what the defense team did though.

[@geoffpoole483]

@@mako3197 I think this was her first DP case; I don't know how cases are assigned to judges in the US but this case needed a judge with DP experience. The judge who presided over the Markeith Loyd trials would have been a good choice. Loyd was not a model defendant. However, I doubt many judges would actually want the Parkland case. The Parkland trial dragged on for too long because of multiple motions filed by the defence. The defence wanted a plea deal giving Cruz LWOP in return for a guilty plea but the prosecution wanted DP. In the end after years of legal wrangling Cruz got LWOP. I understand the defence was trying to save their client's life but their conduct stank.

[@EffSharp]

Exactly. I’ve been a defender for 20 years and although I have seen some very bad behavior from judges, I’ve never in my life seen one behave like this. Its was honestly shocking.

[@T_WC123]

Agree, she lost control of her temper and lost sight of her role as a judge in this case and it’s good she left. I don’t like her trying to now unapologetically spin it as her just caring so much about the families to justify her misconduct. She seems to struggle with accountability. Probably very good she’s off the bench now.

[@lizb9545]

Elizabeth Scherer could have 'exceeded expectations' on her yearly performance review and commemorated as "Employee of the Year" in victim advocacy, social work, or corrections. Her skills = 100% match to every criterion listed in those job descriptions. Praising her JUST BECAUSE (you like/agree her, hate the defendant, condemn his crimes, and/or detest defense attorneys, etc.) totally disregards the specific JOB DESCRIPTION she was hired to do. Before singing praises, educate yourselves. Maybe consider a quick recap of our Constitution's checks & balances (hint hint: highlight the role of our judiciary) and then take a quick glance at Florida's Code of Judicial Conduct. In other words, her job description. The specific "skills" that must not only qualify her but assess her performance and competence. This is very simple, which is so very disturbing that it requires an explanation.....if the job description is not met, then there must be _____ (fill in the blank for your own job, for your kids' teachers, police officers, pilots, whomever). I'm hoping you filled in that blank with fired, terminated, reprimanded, disciplined, or at least warned, because if you did not, then this message is incomprehensible and completely not for you. For those of you who do "get it," I will only suggest that you imagine the opposite scenario. Do you really want to place "everything" in the hands of someone who reacts to personal bias or attacks, with a total disregard for the skills listed in the job description, the professional rules of conduct governing that profession, and let's not forget, the supreme law of this country (the U.S. Constitution)? Impartiality from the bench ensures that EVERYONE is treated fairly. Why? Because maybe next time there will be a judge who simply hates kids, was tormented as a teenager, had his/her state attorney application rejected, and then hugs the defendant when he/she is acquitted. Her behavior was commendable, if she were ANYONE ELSE, but as THE JUDGE? She was unprofessional, unethical, and unhinged (because we, as women, cannot "over-react" or we are shunned, insulted, and sanctioned due to our "hysterical and emotional outbursts").

[@ianfortuna9385]

This trial was handled perfectly there is NOTHING controversial about it! Those defense attorneys were working way too hard to defend someone that wasn’t worth defending. She handled it perfectly and anybody that says otherwise is part of the problem!

[@MericaMotherFucker]

😂😂🤡

[@nickslick75]

Sadly, a panel of esteemed and professional judges dared to disagree with @ianfortuna9385, esteemed youtube commenter.

[@ianfortuna9385]

@@nickslick75 sadly those judges are gutless cowards who bought a sob story from some sulking defense attorneys. Nickslick75

[@ianfortuna9385]

@@nickslick75 youre a keyboard warrior behind a screen.

[@nickslick75]

@@ianfortuna9385 And you're clearly an esteemed legal commenter. On youtube.

[@HeroAkii]

I think people are missing the point, it's not about what she said or did as a judge during the case it's about what she *didn't*. She failed to keep the witnesses within acceptable bounds when making statements that was the problem. When a witness starts making violent statements (even when they're understandable) they need to be warned and then removed upon several infractions. If she had made a slight effort in this endeavor then there wouldn't be any problem with her emotional comments besides some complaints that come up in every case but would be probably be dismissed. As much as I wish that victims could go up to their attacker and sucker punch them with no consequences, it would be impartial and show bias if a judge let them do so, which is a much worse version of what she basically did. I'd like to go on to say that I'm personally a big fan of her, but unfortunately that isn't an excuse for it.

[@wiggly71]

Elizabeth your are amazing judge. To show compasion to the families shows you are a human being with feelings. Something laking in this world.

[@EffSharp]

Nope. She might be a great person, but she’s the worst judge I’ve ever seen and I’ve been in this biz 20 years. ❤⚖️

[@MrYankeesfan21]

The people who watched the trial every day should know that the defense was very unprofessional. People that are saying the judge was unprofessional are clueless and have no brain

[@glitter7777]

The defense attorneys were disrespectful but this judge was a bit knee jerk and petty. He wasn’t threatening her child he was simply trying to make her consider how she would feel if this was her child etc. and he never said if this was your daughter he said if this was your child. Hypothetically, it didn’t even confirm she had a child until she confirmed it

[@megamonster1234]

This comment section is proof that most people do not understand how our justice system should work and why it can be hard to select a truly impartial jury. The judge was obviously biased but the people praising her and saying that she wasn't are only doing so because she was biased against a deplorable and obviously guilty defendant.

[@wilsonfisk6626]

Amen

[@robertdosil1]

From someone has been through every phase of the legal system, that judge is what we hope to encounter as an American. Shame of that defense council and anyone who thinks the job she did was anything short of the best any of us could hope to find in the American legal system

[@BlueDauntless]

I wouldn’t want an overly emotional and biased judge on my case.

[@sherly4289]

Backlash she is getting is absolutely disgusting. She did her job very well with compassion. the defense is absolutely disgusting they should receive backlash and not her.

[@jordanleighwheatley]

I loved her actions during the trial. She stood her ground. I also feel like she was a victim of inherent misogyny because I've seen male judges get heated with people and they don't get shredded in the public

[@iammicah895]

Oh ok, Mary Sue.

[@basicleighdisney5643]

You weren't paying attention if you think that's the reason she was shredded.