TORONTO – It was trial by combat in a Florida courtroom after a judge became frustrated with a lawyer, and offered to take their argument ‘out back.’
According to CBS news, Judge John Murphy become angry with public defender Andrew Weinstock, after he refused to give up his client’s constitutional right to a speedy trial.
Video of incident, which took place Monday, shows the two men arguing before stepping out into the hallway.
“I’m the public defender, I have the right to be here and I have a right to stand and represent my clients,” Weinstock replied.
“Sit down,” Murphy said. “If you want to fight, let’s go out back and I’ll just beat your (expletive).”
“Let’s go right now,” Weinstock said.
A fight ensued off-camera, with Murphy allegedly striking Weinstock repeatedly.
The two can be heard screaming at one another with one of them saying, “You want to (expletive) with me?”
The video then shows the judge returning to the courtroom as people applaud.
CBS reports the judge involved in the altercation has since agreed to take a leave of absence and will seek anger management counseling.
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