In the heart of Limerick, a vibrant personality and a master storyteller bid adieu, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and legal acumen. The news of the passing of Judge Adams, the esteemed County Court Judge of Limerick, has cast a sombre hue over the city, as it mourns the loss of a man whose wit was as sharp as his judgments were fair.
Judge Adams, a rare gem in the legal realm, possessed not only a profound understanding of the law but also an unmatched talent for weaving humor into the most mundane proceedings. His courtroom was not just a space for legal deliberations; it was a theater where even the dullest cases came to life through his humorous anecdotes. His quick wit, often referred to affectionately as “Dick Adams,” transformed the atmosphere of the Limerick County Court, drawing crowds that spilled beyond the confines of the building.
Known for his unconventional approach, Judge Adams brought a breath of fresh air to the solemnity of the legal profession. His tenure as the Chairman of Quarter Sessions was marked by decisions that, while unconventional, seldom faced challenge or critique. The National Liberal Club, where he was a popular member, echoed with his wit and charm, proving that his humor was not confined to the courtroom.
A connoisseur of humorous stories, Judge Adams had a rare gift as a raconteur that was unrivaled. Whether donning his judicial robes on the Bench or engaging in banter at the National Liberal Club, he brought joy and laughter to those around him. His collection of witty tales, delivered with impeccable timing, made him a beloved figure not only among legal circles but also in the broader community.
The judge’s charisma extended beyond the courtroom, as illustrated by the tales of his unconventional approach to settling disputes. A story circulates of an open-air court session on a Sunday, where he arbitrated a disagreement over a stream between two farms. Gathering the litigants at the disputed rivulet, Judge Adams, seated on a fence, delivered a decision that satisfied all parties involved. It was a testament to his commitment to justice, even if it meant taking the courtroom to the open air.
As Limerick bids farewell to Judge Adams, tales of his wit and unorthodox courtroom antics linger in the air. His legacy is not just in the judgments he rendered but in the laughter he shared and the unique charm he brought to the legal profession. The city mourns the loss of a judicial wit, a master storyteller, and a man whose memory will endure through the countless tales told in fond remembrance of Dick Adams.
Daily News (London) – Monday 06 April 1908