Nevada Supreme Court Justice Cliff Young, right, gets a congratulatory hug from his granddaughter Christia Young, 14, following a ceremony commemorating Young's retirement after 18 years on the bench. Former Judge Richard Minor, rear, was one of many friends and co-workers that honored Young Wednesday morning at the court in Carson City.
Cliff Young, who is finishing an 18-year career on the Nevada Supreme Court, was honored by his fellow justices, attorneys and staff of the court Wednesday.
"After hearing all these complimentary remarks this morning, I have some idea how the pancake feels when the syrup is being poured on it," said Young after a half-hour of accolades.
Noting that normally both pro and con have their day in court, he added, "I think I'll forgo the rebuttal."
Young, 80, is retiring from the court after three six-year terms. Before that, he spent a decade in the Nevada Senate and two terms as Nevada's lone member in the House of Representatives.
He was praised for his intelligence, his willingness to help and support other members of the court and particularly young staff members, and his personal as well as professional integrity.
"Everything about you speaks well of you," said fellow Justice Deborah Agosti. "Except the dead animals in your office," she said, referring to Young's hunting trophies.
Young was supposed to be chief justice this year, but passed on the rotation last year. He asked Bill Maupin to continue as chief because of the numerous ongoing court reforms in the works. Maupin said Wednesday he intended to remedy that.
So Maupin resigned his position as chief justice, "So an American patriot, a Nevada patriot will retire as he should: as chief justice of the state of Nevada Supreme court."
Young will serve until January, when his term ends.