Judge Telesca appointed me as Special Master in a class action. When I arrived for the Fairness Hearing, he insisted that I preside alone in his courtroom and from his chair. I declined; however, Judge Telesca “ordered” me to do so.
My body shook as those present were told: “all rise for Special Master Modica.” It was a surreal experience, especially when I saw my daughter (an intern in the building) sitting in the rear of the courtroom.
I tried a case before Judge Siragusa soon after he joined the Court. My pro bono prisoner client moved that I buy him lunch. I resisted; however, I agreed to comply with all Court orders. My client’s lunch that day was compliments of Attica.
