OPINION: My brightest days as a Children's Court judge

When I put on my black robe, I often see people at their lowest. As a Children’s Court judge, I deal with child abuse, neglect and youth who are in serious trouble. I have to decide whether children can be safely returned to their parents and, if not, what action to take.

Other days, I consider the future of children who have committed delinquent acts, balancing their rehabilitative needs with societal safety. It is difficult when children, the most vulnerable members of our community, are involved in horrible situations and circumstances. Things can seem very dark. Fortunately, for each dark moment there are bright moments of hope and love.

I embrace the times when the darkness lifts, heavy feelings disappear and I see a spark of hope. I remember at these times why I have dedicated myself to public service. I celebrate the parents who have put in work making the life changes necessary for their children to be returned to them.

I celebrate when a child in our delinquency system overcomes barriers and gets on a successful path. My belief that people can change if they desire to change and are given the tools, services and support to make change is affirmed.

As a Children’s Court judge, I preside over adoptions and weddings. These are some of my most joyous moments. The courtroom is filled with love. On these days the law is not there to provide consequences or fix a crisis; the law is there to celebrate love. I normally operate in a world of “aftermaths” dealing with things that have already gone wrong, but wedding and adoption days are “beginnings.”

When a couple stands before me, I see love and hope. Watching people promise to care for and love each other is brave and beautiful. Equally as beautiful is legally connecting parent(s) and children who already share a private loving bond. Children are assured of a forever home, and parents can finally breathe a sigh of relief knowing that a child is legally theirs. The unmistakable warmth of their love on these days and their hope for the future is felt by everyone in the courtroom.

These moments of brightness center me as a judge. They remind me that for every sad case on my docket, a happy story is being written elsewhere. I see the good that I can accomplish. I am honored to celebrate the victories of parents and children when their case results in a way that places them on a positive path forward. I am blessed to participate in the joy of building new families.

These bright moments are a “reset button” for me; they keep me from becoming cynical or burnt out. I feel exhilaration coupled with peace. It is a rare privilege to see everyone leave the courtroom with a smile or tears of joy. I do not take a single success story, adoption or wedding for granted — each brings love and hope into my heart.

Diana Garcia is a Children’s Court judge in the 2nd Judicial District Court.