The judiciary has been described as the most transparent branch of government because judges are the only government officials who have to write an explanation for their decisions. But who hasn't occasionally looked at the people in black robes and seen an inscrutable black box instead?

We started "Questions for the Bench" this year to find out more about the jurists who determine the fate of litigation throughout the state.

Twelve judges generously answered our interrogatories, offering candor and insight into their journeys to the bench, their pet peeves and their deep concerns about the cases they handle. I'm happy to say that three more judges are working on answers that we hope to publish in the coming days and next year.

If you know a judge who is interested in participating next year, please let me know at [email protected].

Judge Penny Freesemann, Chatham County Superior Court. (Courtesy photo)

"The point. Get to it."   —Chief Judge Penny Haas Freesemann of Chatham County Superior Court, on habits she'd like lawyers appearing before her to change.

U.S. District Judge Mark Cohen. (Courtesy photo)

Judge Mark Cohen"If I could mandate one change in the practice of law, it would be to ban the use of e-mail communication between civil practitioners. The days of actually calling someone to discuss an issue (or, better yet, actually meeting with opposing counsel in someone's office) apparently have gone the way of the slide rule."    —Judge Mark Cohen, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia