Judicial Temperament – A judge must be patient, calm and respectful to everyone. A judge should never demean or intimidate people, never appear arrogant and should be courteous to lawyers, people without lawyers, jurors, witnesses, and court staff. A good judge keeps her ego out of the courtroom. Judges do not own the courtrooms. They work for us!

Integrity – A judge must be honest and committed to following the law in every case.

Professional & Intellectual Competence – A judge should have extensive legal knowledge, be able to follow complex or subtle legal arguments, and be a clear communicator. A judge should always be prepared when he enters the courtroom.

Compassion – A judge should show sensitivity to the problems and frailties of ordinary people.

Experience – A judge should have a strong record of professional excellence and accomplishment before becoming a judge.

Fairness – A judge should be unbiased. A good judge never punishes lawyers or litigants for bringing their legal arguments to court, even if it makes the judge's workload more difficult. A good judge creates an atmosphere in the courtroom where all parties feel they had a fair hearing, had a full opportunity to present their case, and that they weren't just brushed aside or cut off.

Courage – A good judge has the courage and independence to make decisions based on the facts and the law, even if those decisions may be unpopular with some.

Public Service – A good judge is committed to being a public servant and always understands that she serves at the pleasure of the citizens who elected her.

Hard-working – A good judge should carry his fair share of the workload of the court, be energetic – not lazy – and give the taxpayers confidence they are getting their money's worth.

Click here for a list of candidates who have received our endorsement.