The Warner Legislative Chamber in the Nebraska State Capitol was standing room only for Supreme Court Justice Jonathan Papik’s investiture on May 7, 2018. Former partners from the Cline Williams Law Firm and residents of Stromsburg, Nebraska, packed the balconies while family, judges and staff filled the main floor.

Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court Mike Heavican served as host the ceremony; Governor Pete Ricketts presented the Certificate of Appointment; and Hon. Neil M. Gorsuch, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, administered the oath of office.

During remarks regarding Papik, Gorsuch quoted the words credited to the Greek philosopher Socrates who described the four essential qualities that belong to a good judge as being able to hear courteously; to answer wisely; to consider soberly; and to decide impartially. Gorsuch noted that it takes some people many years to achieve the Socrates standard, and others just have it. Turning to Heavican, Gorsuch remarked, “Mr. Chief Justice, I am pleased to report to you that Jonathan Papik just has it.”

Photo: Justice Papik is robed by his wife, Rachel, and their three children: Bob, Maggie and Noelle.