One-of-a-Kind Judge
The Honorable Hippo Garcia
by
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Hippo Garcia entered school as a Spanish only speaker. Just one fourth grade teacher noted his persistent efforts. High school administrators now admit he was overlooked. At the university Hippo worked as a janitor, car jockey, and shoe salesman to pay bills. After law school Hippo worked as a clerk for the Bexar County records office. He did not realize his own ability until his best friend Roy Barrera, Sr. already an assistant district attorney, insisted that he was more that capable and must leave the safe places for the challenging life of an Assistant District Attorney.Once he started prosecuting criminals, Hippo Garcia gradually grew into a highly respected prosecutor. He tried cases in four jurisdictions. He was a friend, a mentor, and brother to many young people aspiring to a law career.
Judges, attorneys, even persons on trial note how his daily encouragement, dinner advice and constant humor kept them advancing through their daily rigors. The man was a true morale builder for staff, colleagues and clients alike.
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About the Book
“ In one federal case tried in Austin, Texas a pro-se tax protester actually thanked Judge Garcia for the fairness of the process after the protester had been convicted by the jury.… Judge Garcia has brought dignity and compassion to his courtrooms for over thirty years.”Tom Moore, Assistant United states Attorney, San Antonio.
Judge Hippo inspired me to become a lawyer. I am blessed to have him as a mentor. He is my oldest son’s godfather , a role he fulfills for the children of so many of his friends who love him as a part of their families”Thomas J. Forestier, Haynes and Boone, L.L.P.
“To give dignity to a person is above all things.”The Honorable H.F. Garcia’s motto
Hippo Garcia was short, fat, and poor, and never number one in school or sports. His experience in World War II caused him to drop his shyness and to step out to accomplish positive something for many people. One insightful friend recognized his hidden capability and persuaded him to enter college and law school. After graduation his intelligence and understanding of people expanded in ways that almost no one—including himself—expected. His legal work for the people took him to the highest level of law practice in Texas. He became the first Mexican-American appointed United States District Judge Western District of Texas. His motto: “To give dignity to a person is above all things.”
About the Author
In fourth grade Joan Carabin dreamed of becoming a crime reporter, studying post office wanted posters and looking for the criminals. Fifty-six years later she and her husband Bob moved next door to Judge Hippo Garcia’s brother Henry and his wife Tillie. The Garcia family inspired this book.