Joan Cook Carabin

One-Of-A-Kind Judge: The Honorable Hippo Garcia Joan Cook Carabin

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"