Description: (American Lawyer and Judge)
Joseph Franklin Rutherford, also known as Judge Rutherford, was an American legal professional who became a prominent religious leader as the second president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. He started his career in law as a court stenographer, trial lawyer, and prosecutor before joining the Bible Student movement. Rutherford was instrumental in the doctrinal evolution of Jehovah's Witnesses, implementing organizational and doctrinal reforms that led to a notable increase in membership during his tenure.