Hon. James “Jim” Lamz serves as judge over the City Court of Slidell. Judge Lamz was chosen to receive a Crystal Gavel Award due to his outstanding work in educating the public and students about legal matters.

Judge Lamz has opened the doors of Slidell City Court to civic and community organizations so the public can watch and learn about the judicial process and the Court’s functions. Each year the Leadership Slidell Class, of which Judge Lamz is a 1992 graduate, visits the Court for an in depth presentation on how the Court operates and the role played by lawyers, litigants, Court staff and the Judge. Beginning in 2011, the Slidell Police Citizen’s Academy attended a briefing by Judge Lamz on the Court’s operations, jurisdiction and case trends, and now his presentations are a part of the Academy’s regular program.
Judge Lamz has spoken numerous times before various organizations about the need for Court Appointed Child Advocates (CASA), and he appeared in a public service announcement encouraging volunteers for CASA. The judge has also spoken before several organizations urging adoption or becoming a foster parent for children who cannot be returned to their parents or guardians because of abuse or neglect. Needing a tool to help get his message across to children in the court system, Judge Lamz enlisted the help of his administrative assistant, Kasey, and the two collaborated to come up with a coloring book which is now being used in presentations to local children. He is hoping to make the book available on the Court’s website so that all can access it.

Judge Lamz began the first “judicial ride along” program in Slidell City Court in which area legislators are invited to attend sessions with the court to improve communication and awareness between courts and lawmakers. State Rep. Pete Schneider, Sen. Walter Boasso and State Rep. A.G. Crowe participated in the program and provided positive responses, seeing it as a wonderful opportunity to see firsthand the drug court in action and the results it produces.

“Jim Lamz has performed above and beyond the position to which he was elected in November of 2004,” said attorney Deanna J. Hamilton-Lamz. “Judge Lamz has administered justice in a manner that is exemplary, he has implemented projects to educate the public about the court and its functions, and he continues to work in conjunction with the court system to make it welcoming, inviting and understandable for all who have to experience the legal system.”

Judge Lamz earned his law degree from Loyola University Law School.