A trial was scheduled for June 14, 2011. Defendants requested a short continuance because “one of their counsel, Bryan Erman, along with his wife, is expecting their first child due on July 3.”

Plaintiffs’ counsel objected — strenuously. This took Judge Eric Melgren (D. Kansas) by surprise.

Judge Melgren granted the continuance — and took the opportunity to benchslap the lawyers who refused to consent….

Check out the order here. Ouch. Here’s the conclusion:

Certainly this judge is convinced of the importance of federal court, but he has always tried not to confuse what he does with who he is, nor to distort the priorities of his day job with his life’s role. Counsel are encouraged to order their priorities similarly.

Defendants’ Motion is GRANTED. The Ermans are CONGRATULATED.

IT IS SO ORDERED.

Dated this 12th day of April, 2011.

Yay.