Governor Crist Names Polston to Florida Supreme Court
Oct 1, 2008
Praises Ricky Polston’s compassion, dedication to justice
October 1, 2008
TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today named Judge Ricky Polston to the Florida Supreme Court. Judge Polston, 52, is Governor Crist’s second appointment to the seven-member high court.
“I have taken great care in appointing Judge Polston because I know this selection will affect generations of Floridians,” said Governor Charlie Crist. “The Supreme Court justices make precedent-setting decisions on important matters. I am confident Judge Polston will rule from our state’s highest bench with restraint, fairness and humility. He has shown, throughout his personal and professional life, the kind of compassion that is so important to our justice system.”
Judge Polston has since 2001 served on the First District Court of Appeals in Tallahassee. A Panhandle native who grew up on the family farm in Graceville, Florida, he graduated from the Florida State University College of Law with honors in 1986. He was in private practice for 14 years, handling a variety of cases in state, federal and appellate court. A certified public accountant for 30 years, he has taught a variety of courses at the Florida State University College of Law since 2003 as an adjunct professor.
“Judge Polston’s breadth of legal experience makes him an ideal choice for this post,” said Governor Crist. “I trust he will have the courage to make decisions that preserve the integrity of our justice system.”
Judge Polston lives in Tallahassee with his wife of 31 years, Deborah Ehler Polston, a children’s book author. They have four biological daughters, ages 18, 21, 23, and 25. They also have adopted six brothers, ages one through 15, from state foster care.
“I am honored and humbled to be named to such an important post,” said Judge Polston, who attended Wednesday’s announcement with his wife and nine children. “I am grateful to have the confidence and support of Governor Charlie Crist, and I will work every day to uphold the Florida Constitution.”
Judge Polston will fill the vacancy created by Justice Kenneth B. Bell, who has served on the Florida Supreme Court since 2003.