Courtroom Video Shows Heated Fight Between Judge, Attorney

Updated
Courtroom Video Shows Heated Fight Between Judge, Attorney
Courtroom Video Shows Heated Fight Between Judge, Attorney


We're going to file this one under things you never expect to see or hear in a courtroom.

Florida Today reports that the judge said "You know, if I had a rock I would throw it at you right now. Stop pissing me off. Just sit down."
"If you want to fight, let's go out back and I'll just beat your a--."
"Let's go out back."

The voices you just heard belonged to public defender Andrew Weinstock and Judge John Murphy. WFTV reports witnesses say the judge asked Weinstock to waive his client's right to a speedy trial.

What came next were some choice words from the Brevard County Judge.
"You wanna f--- with me. Do ya?"
And then things got physical.

The two men went outside the courtroom to a hallway and a loud banging noise was picked up by the courtroom camera. Two deputies reportedly had to break up the fight.

Another public defender told Florida Today Murphy had punched Weinstock in the head, but said he viewed the brawl as an isolated incident, adding, "I hope it's not a reflection on Judge Murphy's really outstanding legal career."

​While charges were not filed in the incident a legal analyst for WKMG says both men could face disciplinary action - with the worst case scenario being they both lose their jobs or get disbarred.

Either way, anchors for WOFL raise an interesting point.
"What about those people who were in front of those people for assault and other situations. They could say, wait a second?"
"And he's going to say, keep your cool."

Several local outlets report the attorney was assigned to another courtroom after the fight, and the judge proceeded with business as usual.

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