In addition to his book of poetry, Judge Filer has written poems to honor others. The one that follows pays tribute to Founding Member Judge Allen J. Webster, Jr., which Judge Filer presented at a prestigious function:
WEBSTER'S DICTIONARY
By: Kelvin D. Filer
I was asked to introduce a special friend
And Judge Allen J. Webster is his name;
I immediately agreed to this assignment
Because, for me, I know he would do the same.
So I decided to look in the book of definitions
So that I could be accurate in my task;
The dictionary was my source of information
So what did I find? . . . you might ask
Well, the Brother comes from a great family
Where education was stressed as the key;
He proudly proclaims that he is "straight outta Compton"
In that way--he is just like me
He matriculated through Compton Jr. College
And graduated from Pepperdine College in 1963;
He then worked several jobs and means of labor
The military, banking, a probation officer to name three.
Yes, being "Allen Webster" means to get involved
As he then heard his ultimate call;
Despite his many occupational pursuits
He added Southwest University to study the law.
After passing the California Bar Exam
Allen maintained an excellent solo practice career;
Criminal defense, probate, family law and personal injury
He handled them all for 23 years!
Still, even with this hectic occupation and life
Being "Allen Webster" means you have to lead the troops;
So he is the former President or Board Member
Of almost every single legal membership group!
Langston, the ABA, CABL, the National Bar Association
LA County and even the California State Bar;
Look up the name "Allen Webster" and you'll see
For each group he has been an absolute star!
Now Maggie and Alana can also tell you
That Allen has a true zest for life;
He loves to travel and visit new places
And "JAZZ" is really his second-wife!
So you will read that he left the practice of law
And decided to have some judicial fun;
First as a Compton Municipal Court Commissioner and
Then a Superior Court Judge appointed in 2001.
He has served with intellect and distinction
Excelling at every assignment the post sends;
Yet, he still finds time to give back to others
As an alumnus, mentor, volunteer and true friend!
So when you look into the history books
The name "Allen Webster" will not need to be defined;
He is already in EVERYBODY'S "Hall of Fame"
Allen J. Webster is the renaissance judge of his time!
