Susan C. Bucklew

Very bright, outwardly cordial, but extremely conservative from state court trial bench to federal district court. Sits as visiting judge on 11th Circuit and is, reportedly, revered by the appellate court. Smiling, she will, as the fact finder in FTCA case, bushwack you with factual findings insulating effective appellate review, deny in forma pauperis relief to Estate of Wrongful Death without any assets yet owing liabilities after previously ruling that the the only proper plaintiff is the personal representative of the estate, but then considering the meager borderline income and assets of the PR, individually, to justify denial. If the U.S. is the defendant, beware. She will bend over backwards to rule in their favor, substantively and procedurally

Excellent judge in terms of demeanor towards the lawyers -- always courteous and polite. Rewards hard work and a respectful attitude. Very pro government in rulings and general attitude.

Judge Bucklew requires its litigants to be ultra prepared and she does it "by the book." I represented serveral indiviuals that were being sued by a multi-national corporation, and she was very fair with her rulings and did not give the corporation any breaks or leeway. Be certain that you can substantiate your position with caselaw and provide her with your caselaw before the hearing. Lastly, make sure you can abide with the deadlines set forth in your case management report. If you cannot, file a timely motion for extension of time--she is generally willing to grant such motions, but she will not allow missed deadlines and will not hesitate to sanction the attorney involved.