Gentleman Jurist: The Life of Ralph Thompson ~ Bob Burke & Eric Dabney

"The adversary system is inherently contentious and, by its very nature, necessarily full of abrasive conflicts. Advocacy must be vigorous , but always within the fixed rules of personal conduct and civility between the contending lawyers and the court....Good manners, disciplined behavior, and civility are the ingredients that keep lawsuits from turning into alley fights." ~ Judge Ralph Thompson
Gentleman Jurist by Bob Burke & Eric Dabney (Ch. 14: "Harvard & Judicial Philosophy")

"Failing to prepare is preparing to fail." ~ John Wooden
(Ch. 14: "Harvard & Judicial Philosophy")

"If we want excellence in our state, it must start with justice." ~ Judge Ralph Thompson
(Ch. 7: "Two Terms & Three Babies")

"(Take) things in manageable sizes, not becoming distracted or overwhelmed and keeping the ultimate goal in site." ~ Judge Ralph Thompson
(Ch. 4: "A Quality Education")

"I hope to have the courage to do right, the will to be just, and the Christian virtue of being kindly, sympathetic, and open minded." ~ Dr. William Bizzell (University of Oklahoma President; 1925-1941)
(Ch. 2, "Wartime Boyhood")