In honor of Black History Month, we want to highlight the Black pioneers in both the legal field and here at the Ninth. In our first episode commemorating this month, we’re taking a look back at our eye-opening conversation with former Chief Judge Belvin Perry, Jr. From trying cases all over the state of Florida in the state attorney’s office to becoming the Ninth’s first Black judge to join the bench through the election process, Perry has left an impact in both the courts and the community. With his long history of accomplishments, you may not realize that this former judge grew up in humble beginnings. During a time of segregation, with hand-me-down books from better-off schools and exclusion from certain establishments in town, Perry fought adversity to pursue success. Tune in to OpenNinth.fm to hear his story.
Time Stamps

00:15 – Introduction to Belvin Perry, Jr.
04:37 – Growing up in the era of segregation
07:34 – Desire to pursue law
12:55 – Starting in the state attorney’s office
21:35 – Biggest cases as a prosecutor
27:00 – Greatest achievements with the state attorney’s office
29:09 – Path to the bench
34:20 – Reasons for becoming Chief Judge
42:53 – Why he left the bench