Lafayette City Court Judge Jules Edwards III Dies at 66

A Legacy of Service

Lafayette City Court Judge Jules Edwards III, a prominent figure in Louisiana’s legal community, has passed away at the age of 66. His passing was announced during a Lafayette City Council meeting by Mayor-President Monique Boulet, who led a moment of silence in his honor. The cause of his death has not yet been released, but it is believed he died of natural causes. Edwards leaves behind a rich legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to justice in the Lafayette community.

Who Was Jules Edwards III?

Judge Jules Edwards III was a seasoned legal professional, having served on both the 15th Judicial District Court and the Lafayette City Court. He began his judicial career in 1993 with the 15th Judicial District, where he worked for 27 years, including serving as Chief Judge from 2001 to 2003. In 2023, Edwards transitioned to the Lafayette City Court, a move he described as “going upstream” to prevent individuals from traveling further down the path of crime.

Edwards was known for his compassionate approach to justice, focusing on rehabilitation and creating second chances. His motto, “Dare to Dream,” encapsulated his belief in the power of change and his commitment to guiding people toward better futures. Beyond his judicial work, Edwards was a Colonel in the Louisiana National Guard, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 2007.

What Were Judge Edwards’ Major Achievements?

Judge Edwards’ long career was marked by numerous accolades and leadership roles. He was the first African American elected to the Lafayette City Court and was inducted into the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame in 2013. He played a pivotal role in Louisiana’s judiciary, serving on the Louisiana Judiciary Commission from 2013 to 2017, including a term as Chair, where he spearheaded reforms in judicial procedures.

In addition to his judicial work, Edwards was deeply involved in public service, including serving on the Louisiana Sentencing Commission, the Advisory Council on Heroin and Opioid Prevention, and the Louisiana Drug Policy Board. He was also a member of the DWI-Task Force, demonstrating his commitment to addressing critical public safety issues.

Why Did Judge Edwards’ Career Take an Unconventional Path?

After nearly three decades on the 15th Judicial District Court, Edwards made a notable decision to run for Lafayette City Court Judge in 2020. Although he initially lost the race, he continued his dedication to justice by teaching other judges how to craft sentences that would deter repeat offenders. In 2022, he successfully ran for the city court, replacing Michelle Odinet after her resignation.

Edwards saw his move to city court as a chance to intervene earlier in people’s lives, preventing minor cases from escalating to more severe criminal activity. His career shift reflected his belief in rehabilitation and intervention, rather than merely punishment. This philosophy was illustrated by an urban fable he shared during his campaign, emphasizing his desire to “go upstream” to address issues before they spiraled out of control.

What Are the Impacts of His Passing?

The loss of Judge Edwards is deeply felt across the legal community and the city of Lafayette. City Council Member Kenneth Boudreaux called it “a huge loss to the community,” emphasizing Edwards’ recent contributions to budget discussions and initiatives in the Lafayette City Court. His passing leaves a void in the city’s legal system, where his innovative approaches to drug and re-entry courts had set new standards.

Edwards’ passing is not only a loss for the legal community but also for his local parish, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, and the Evangeline Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, where he was actively involved.

What’s Next for Lafayette’s Legal Community?

With Judge Edwards’ passing, the Lafayette City Court will face the difficult task of filling the position left by such a distinguished and forward-thinking judge. His dedication to creating a justice system that emphasized rehabilitation over punishment is likely to continue influencing future decisions, both in Lafayette and beyond. His work with the Louisiana Judiciary Commission and his outreach in teaching other judges will leave a lasting imprint on the state’s judicial processes.

Key Individuals Involved in Judge Edwards’ Life and Career

• Jules Edwards III: Lafayette City Court Judge, military veteran, community leader
• Orida Edwards: His wife, mother of their three adult children
• Monique Boulet: Mayor-President, who announced his passing
• Kenneth Boudreaux: City Council Member who emphasized the impact of Edwards’ death

When Did Judge Edwards Pass Away?

Judge Jules Edwards III passed away on the evening of Tuesday, October 15, 2024. His death was announced publicly during the City Council meeting later that same night.

Where Did Judge Edwards Serve?

Throughout his career, Edwards served the people of Lafayette and Louisiana in various capacities. He was a judge in the 15th Judicial District from 1993 to 2020 and the Lafayette City Court from 2023 until his passing. He also served the United States as a Colonel in the Louisiana National Guard.

What’s Next for Judge Edwards’ Family and Legacy?

Judge Edwards is survived by his wife, Orida, and their three children. His family, along with the broader Lafayette community, will continue to honor his memory and his contributions to justice and public service. His motto, “Dare to Dream,” serves as a guiding light for those who seek to build on the values and vision he embodied throughout his life.