Updated at: 09/22/2009 6:49 PM
By: Renee Passal

End of a Judicial Era

"I remember my first day on the juvenile bench. I was so nervous," said Judge Gerald Martin.

Now he's a pro, having sat on the bench for 31 years. He's changed lives one case at a time.

But those cases are numbered. Judge Martin is retiring on October 1st.

He said it's never gotten old. When he's thought he's seen it all, something new pops up.

"It's very rewarding. But emotionally draining. I'm ready for a break," said Martin.

The judge began his career on the juvenile bench, and spent 24 years there.

"I'm the longest serving judge on a juvenile bench in Minnesota."

After that, Martin went into the regular court rotation. These last few years, he's been especially important with the specialty courts. He's served as the Drug Court judge in Duluth for four years.

"The most important cases are the little ones. Children being reunited with their families. People getting off of chemical dependency."

When asked about changes, Martin said the specialty courts are the most positive development he's seen. The negatives in the system include an overload of cases, and a rise in violent crime.

He will miss the people he's worked with over the years. And swearing in Duluth police officers, which is his tradition.

After October 1st, Martin said he'll spend time with his family, relax, and travel. He's preparing to be a first time grandpa as well.