Yuma, AZ- Over 200 people gathered at the Yuma Civic Center for a ceremony honoring Judge Andrew Gould, a former Presiding Judge of the Superior Court In Yuma County.
Judge Gould was recently appointed by Governor Jan Brewer to Division One of the Arizona Court of Appeals.
Several members of the Arizona Supreme Court, Judges of the Appeals Court and community leaders were in attendance. Judge Gould says he really appreciates the support.
"It's really overwhelming that we get to share these things with people we care about. The Community has been so good to me and my family. It's Wonderful and it means everything to me," says Judge Gould.
Judge John Nelson with the Yuma County Superior Court tells News 13 Judge Gloud will now be 1 of 3 Judges representing Yuma County, which he says is a great honor.
"It's recognition of an outstanding legal career in trial court. It's where Judge Gould was and the appointment represents he has sound reasoning and can apply the law fairly and it also represents all the good things of those asked to interrupt the law," says Judge Nelson.
Judge Gloud has served as a Judge on the Yuma County Superior Court for over ten years including a term as a Presiding Judge from 2006-2011.
Many people at the ceremony spoke very highly of Judge Gould and he even received a couple gifts, which included a pair of plastic cow boy boots and a toy.
"I cant tell you about the plastic boots. It could jeopardize my appointment. That was a college story. I'll have to leave that for another day," says Judge Gould.
"He was given Woody from the Disney movie Toy Story. People call him Woody all the time. His middle name is Woody and he has a strong resemblance to the character. It's kind of a practical joke and he took it well," says Judge Nelson.
Arizona Court of Appeals Division One is based out of Phoenix and that's where Judge Gould's office is located. He says for now he'll commute back and forth, as he will continue to reside in Yuma County.
Judge Gould will serve a 4 year term and will have the opportunity to be re-elected.
