As reported here by CNN, Judge Larry Seidlin has decided to retire in part "to pursue the many opportunities that have been offered to me outside the judicial system." (See here for law.com’s more lengthy report.) The speculation has been that Judge Seidlin will now "pursue" some sort of TV deal. As I reported here, Judge Seidlin’s performance during the Anna Nicole Smith proceeding in Florida was the subject of much criticism. Perhaps any press (good or bad) is enough to land a daytime TV deal? Anyway, the following is the entire CNN report (it’s short):
(CNN) — The Florida judge noted for his unorthodox oversight of the Anna Nicole Smith case says he is retiring at the end of July.
"As a judge, I have been deeply touched by the thousands of children and families in crisis who have come before me to share their struggles," Broward County Circuit Judge Larry Seidlin wrote June 13 to Florida Gov. Charlie Crist.
"I hope that by working together, we have made a positive difference in their lives," Seidlin added. "I consider myself among the most fortunate people on earth."
The letter was made public Tuesday.
"Nevertheless," he continued, "it is now time for me to devote more of my daily life to my own young family and to pursue the many opportunities that have been offered to me outside the judicial system, and I have disregarded until now."
The 57-year-old Bronx native wept on the bench during his oversight of the disposition of Smith’s remains.
CNN legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin referred to him as "Judge Judy’s wacky little brother."
Some observers speculated he was using his platform as a dais from which to try out for a job on television.