Wednesday October 1, 2008
The Blogster just returned to the Capitol from the State Supreme Court chambers across the street. Paul J. Knierim was just sworn in as Probate Court administrator. The probate-court system is facing big budget deficits and the pressing need for reorganization, so it’s not an enviable job facing him.
Knierim sat up on the high bench with Chief Probate Court Administrator Barbara Quinn and Supreme Court Chief Justice Chase T. Rogers, who swore in Knierim.
Rogers did not sit on the May 2007 case, which is still pending – where gay couples from throughout the state claimed that the state’s civil-union law was separate and unequal – because of a conflict. Her husband was involved in the case as an attorney.
Anyway, the Blogster couldn’t help but note the coincidence of an emotional Knierim introducing his family and partner, Greg Nickett. “He’s the funny one, according to my 13-year-old niece,” Knierim quipped to the 100 or so people in attendance. Knierim and Nickett have been “civilly unionized,” a verb that in itself shows the awkward aspects facing committed same-sex partners.
After the courtroom ceremony, I asked Knierim if he thought there was any degree of irony in a gay probate court administrator introducing his meaningful other in the courtroom where gays are fighting for expanded rights.
Knierim didn’t want to comment, other than to say that he’s proud Nickett is his partner.
