First Judicial District Criminal Court Judge Lynn Brown surprised the legal community and even many close friends with his announcement of his retirement at the end of March 2013. In a statement opening court Wednesday, Brown said he'd always been blessed with good health but his health in recent months has had some problems and has been advised by his doctor to not spend as much time sitting. Brown was first elected to the bench in 1988 and before that served as Assistant District Atty. Gen. for 11 years in the First Judicial District. (CS)