Max E. Carlson

Evaluation history

• 2008 retention cycle

  Trial Court · Sedgwick · Sedgwick

  Meets Standards(Retain)
  VotersRetained· 78.3% yes

  998 yes · 277 no50% needed to retain
  Reports: 2008 Retention Survey Report Need an accessible PDF Document version? Please click on the link below and email our staff Contact Us The Thirteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance recommends, by a unanimous vote, that Judge Max E. Carlson BE RETAINED. Background: Judge Carlson was appointed to the bench in1978. He graduated from the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Nebraska Law School. He taught English for two years at the University of Northern Colorado . Currently his workload consists of15% Civil, 5% Felony, 20% Traffic, 20% Misdemeanor and 40% Traffic cases. He also maintains a private practice and is licensed to practice in both Colorado and Nebraska . Judge Carlson updated a county judicial bench book to help him be consistent and accurate in his decisions. The book has been distributed to every county court in the district plus a number of other counties. Judge Carlson serves on the Board of Directors of two local foundations, is a past president of the Julesburg Lions Club and frequently speaks to local high schools about the law and education requirements for a legal profession. The Commission reviewed the results of attorney and non-attorney evaluations, including written comments from both groups. The Commission also interviewed Judge Carlson in person and considered his written self-evaluation. Strengths/Weaknesses: Judge Carlson strives to issue well reasoned decisions, have an even temperament and be punctual. He stated that he believes most criminal defendants have underlying issues that eventually lead them to break the law and the ideal judge will help him/her with the underlying problem. The attorneys surveyed listed his strengths as: Judicial demeanor, knowledge of the law, communication skills, knowledge of the community and carefully considering factors and issues in each case. One attorney commented that Judge Carlson does well considering being such a distance from nearby courts. No weaknesses were noted. Recommendation: Of those who made a retention recommendation,100% of attorneys and 72% of non-attorneys surveyed recommend that Judge Carlson be retained in office, while 38% of non-attorneys recommended non-retention. The samples were quite small (3 attorneys and14 non-attorneys), perhaps reflecting the size of his jurisdiction
• 2004 retention cycle

  Trial Court · Sedgwick · Sedgwick

  Meets Standards(Retain)
  VotersRetained· 78.0% yes

  1,022 yes · 288 no50% needed to retain
  Retention Year: 2004 Recommendation: Retain Reports: 2004 Retention Survey Report Need an accessible PDF Document version? Please click on the link below and email our staff Contact Us The Thirteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance recommends that Judge Max E. Carlson BE RETAINED in office by a unanimous vote of the six commission members. Judge Carlson was appointed to the Sedgwick County bench in July 1978. He is a 30% time judge, and also maintains a private practice in Julesburg, specializing in estates and civil matters. Judge Carlson presently hears civil, misdemeanor and traffic cases in county court, and felony advisements. The Commission reviewed the results of evaluations of Judge Carlson from attorneys and non-attorneys, including written comments from both groups. The Commission also interviewed Judge Carlson in person and considered the judge's written self-evaluation. Judge Carlson is concerned about the judicial process and strives for improvement. He is currently updating a judicial bench book to help him be consistent and accurate in his decisions. Judge Carlson believes that punishment should be combined with treatment to reduce the likelihood of re-offending. The judge took an anger management class himself, as he sometimes requires defendants to do, and found the information useful. Judge Carlson regularly visits the middle schools and high schools in Sedgwick County, where he speaks to students about the law and living within it. Of the attorneys surveyed who had an opinion, 100% recommended Judge Carlson's retention. Of the non-attorneys surveyed, 82% of those with an opinion on the subject recommended retention, while 18% recommended non-retention.
• 2000 retention cycle

  Trial Court · Sedgwick · Sedgwick

  Meets Standards(Retain)
  Retention Year: 2000 Recommendation: Retain The Thirteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance recommends Judge Max E. Carlson BE RETAINED. Judge Carlson was appointed to the Sedgwick County Court bench in August 1978. Judge Carlson presently hears traffic, traffic infraction, misdemeanor, and civil cases as part-time judge. He also has a private practice of law in Julesburg. He has represented the municipalities of Julesburg, Ovid, Sedgwick, and the County of Sedgwick. Questionnaires for evaluation of Judge Carlson were sent to all attorneys who have practiced in his court the past two years and non-attorneys (law enforcement, jurors, litigants, court/probation employees and crime victims) who have appeared in his court. Those surveys returned rated Judge Carlson very highly. Judge Carlson consistently rated higher than evaluation ratings of all county judges on a statewide basis. Of the attorneys surveyed 100% voted in favor of retention. Of the non-attorneys surveyed, 78% voted in favor of retention, 7% voted in favor of non-retention, and 16% had no opinion. The vote of the eight member Commission was unanimous to retain Judge Carlson.
• 1996 retention cycle

  Trial Court · Sedgwick · Sedgwick

  Meets Standards(Retain)
  Retention Year: 1996 Recommendation: Retain The Thirteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance recommends that Judge Carlson BE RETAINED. Judge Carlson was appointed to the Sedgwick County Court Bench in 1978 and has served continuously for 18 years. Judge Carlson presently hears criminal misdemeanor, traffic, traffic infraction and civil cases as a part-time judge. He also has a private practice in Julesburg. Evaluation received from courthouse personnel, attorney, and litigants consistently rated Judge Carlson very highly. The Commission’s impression of Judge Carlson based on an in-person interview is that he very competently fulfills his office and has a temperament very well suited to a rural county court judge.
• 1992 retention cycle

  Trial Court · Sedgwick · Sedgwick

  Meets Standards(Retain)
  Retention Year: 1992 Recommendation: Retain Judge Carlson is a 1971 graduate of the University of Northern Colorado and a 1976 graduate of the University of Nebraska School of Law. He was appointed Sedgwick County Judge in 1978. As a part-time judge, Judge Carlson maintains a private practice of law in Julesburg. Attorneys, court personnel, jurors and law enforcement officers all gave Judge Carlson universally high marks for his performance. The 13th Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance recommends that Judge Max E. Carlson be Retained.

Surveys & reports

• 2008 cycle
  • 2008 Retention Survey Report(PDF on OJPE)
    Read full retention survey textexpandcollapse

    ## Page 1 State off Colorado LLogo COOMMISSIOON ON JUUDICIALL PERFORRMANCEE MMMaaxx EEEE.. CCaarrrrllssoonn 22008 Juudicial PPerformmance Suurvey ## Page 2 April 30, 2008 The Honorable Max E. Carlson Sedgwick County Courthouse Third & Pine Julesburg, CO. 80737 Dear Judge Carlson: Every two years the Colorado Judicial Performance Commission conducts a survey of people who have been in the courtroom of judges who face a retention vote in the next general election. The 2008 survey was conducted by Talmey-Drake Research & Strategy, Inc., who attempted to contact over 57,000 people statewide who had been in these courtrooms in one capacity or another. Over 12,400 people responded—3,084 to the attorney survey and 9,317 to the non-attorney survey. This report contains the results of those who were in your courtroom and who responded to the survey. In addition to this introduction, the report is divided into four main sections: • Attorney Results & Comments: This section contains graphs displaying the average grade you received overall (the combined average from questions 1a through 5e), each section and each question. Following the graphs, are a series of tables showing the percentage distribution of responses to each question. Attorney respondents were also asked to comment about your performance. These comments have been transcribed, and in some instances redacted to eliminate respondent identifying information. A copy of the attorney questionnaire is at the back of this report. • Non-attorney Results & Comments: Similar to the Attorney section, this portion of the report contains graphs (again including the overall average of questions 1a through 5c on the non-attorney questionnaire), the percentage distribution of responses by non-attorneys to each substantive question in the survey. The non-attorney respondents were also asked to comment about your performance. Again, these comments have been transcribed, and in some instances redacted to eliminate respondent identifying information. A copy of the non-attorney questionnaire is also at the back of this report. • Methodology: The third section of the report discusses the methodology of the survey. • Questionnaires: And the final section provides copies of the questionnaires that were used. 100 Arap ahoe, Suite One, Boulder, CO 80302 Phone 303.443.5300 Fax 303.447.9386 ## Page 3 The Honorable Max E. Carlson April, 30 2008 Page 2 If you have any questions about the methodology and how the survey was conducted, please feel free to contact me at 303-443-5300 ext 1, and for any other questions you might have about the survey please call the Executive Director of the Colorado Judicial Performance Program, Jane Howell, at 303-837-3665. Best regards, Paul A. Talmey President enc: ## Page 4 AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy The following results are based on 3 completed attorney evaluations of Judge Carlson—out of 5 mailed or attempted telephone interviews. Use with discretion. ## Page 5 Max E. Carlson AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Average Grades: Overall and by Section 33..44 Overall Average 3.4 3.4 3.4 Q1. Overall Case 33.55 Management 3.4 3.3 Q2. Overall App & 3.3 Knowldge of Law 3.3 3.7 Q3. Overall 3.7 Communications 3.7 3.5 Q4. Overall Demeanor 3.4 3.5 3.4 Q5. Overall Diligence 3.3 3.4 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 AAvveerraaggee GGrraaddee Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 1 ## Page 6 Max E. Carlson AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Average Grades: Case Management 3.4 Q1. Overall Case Management 3.5 3.4 4.0 1a. Promptly making rulings 3.6 during trial 3.6 33.77 1b. Beginning court on time 3.4 3.5 3.7 1c. Allotting appropriate amount 3.4 of time for cases 3.4 3.7 1d. Keeping cases moving 3.5 according to schedule 3.5 4.0 1e. [Civil only] Assisting parties to 3.1 reach agreement 3.0 3.5 1f. Maintaining appropriate 3.6 control over proceedings 3.5 3.0 1g. Promptly ruling on pre-trial 3.4 motions 3.3 3.0 1h. Promptly issuing a decision 3.6 on the case after trial 3.5 3.3 1i. Setting reasonable schedules 3.5 for cases 33.44 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 2 ## Page 7 Max E. Carlson AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Average Grades: Application and Knowledge of Law 3.3 Q2. Overall App & Knowldge of 3.3 LLaaww 3.3 3.5 2a. Basing decisions on evidence 3.3 and arguments 3.3 3.5 2b. Giving reasons for rulings 3.3 3.4 4.0 2c. [Civil only] Issuing written 3.1 findings of fact and law 3.2 3.5 2d. Willing to reconsider error in 2.9 ffaacctt oorr llaaww 2.9 3.5 2e. Having knowledge of relevant 3.3 substantive law 3.3 3.0 2f. Having knowledge of rules of 3.4 pprroocceedduurree aanndd eevviiddeennccee 3.4 3.7 2g. Being able to identify and 3.4 analyze relevant facts 3.4 3.5 2h. [Criminal only] Issuing consistent sentences when the 3.4 circumstances are similar 3.3 3.0 2i. Willing to make decision without regard to possible 3.4 criticism 3.4 3.5 2j. Making decisions without fear 3.5 ooff bbeeiinngg aappppeeaalleedd 3.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 3 ## Page 8 Max E. Carlson AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Average Grades: Communications 3.7 Q3. Overall Communications 3.7 3.7 3.7 3a. Speaking clearly 3.7 3.7 3.7 3b. Making sure all participants 3.6 understand the proceedings 3.6 3.7 3c. Using understandable 3.7 language 3.7 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 4 ## Page 9 Max E. Carlson AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Average Grades: Demeanor 3.5 Q4. Overall Demeanor 3.4 3.5 3.7 4a. Giving proceedings a sense 3.5 of dignity 3.5 3.7 4b. Treating everyone involved 3.5 politely 33.44 4.0 4c. Having empathy with the 3.3 parties involved 3.3 3.7 4d. Treating participants with 3.5 respect 3.5 3.3 4e. Presenting a neutral 3.3 presence on the bench 3.4 4.0 4f. Being consistent in [his/her] 3.5 behavior 3.5 33.55 4g. Conducting [his/her] 3.4 courtroom in a neutral manner 3.4 3.0 4h. Giving all participants an 3.6 opportunity to be heard 3.6 3.5 44ii. CCoonnssiisstteennttllyy aappppllyyiinngg llaawwss 3.4 and rules 3.4 4.0 4j. Not engaging in ex parte 3.6 communications 3.7 3.5 44kk. TTrreeaattiinngg pprroo ssee ppaarrttiieess ffaaiirrllyy 33.66 3.6 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 5 ## Page 10 Max E. Carlson AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Average Grades: Diligence 3.4 Q5. Overall Diligence 3.3 3.4 3.0 55aa. MMaakkiinngg ttoouugghh ddeecciissiioonnss wwhheenn 3.4 necessary 3.4 3.5 5b. Using good judgment in apppplication of relevant law and 3.3 rules 3.3 3.5 5c. Doing the necessary 'homework' and being prepared 3.4 for [[his/her]] cases 3.4 3.5 5d. Being willing to handle cases on the docket even when they are 3.4 complicated and time consuming 33.55 4.0 5e. Providing prompt access to 3.4 the court in emergency matters 3.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 6 ## Page 11 Max E. Carlson AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Q6. Average: How biased do you think Judge Carlson is toward the defense or prosecution? Max E. Carlson -0.3 All County Judges 0.9 All Trial Judges 0.7 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 (cid:205)Defense Prosecution (cid:206) Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 7 ## Page 12 Max E. Carlson AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Q7. Average: How lenient or how harsh are Judge Carlson's sentences? Max E. Carlson -0.3 All County Judges 0.5 All Trial Judges 0.3 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 (cid:205)Lenient Harsh (cid:206) Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 8 ## Page 13 Max E. Carlson AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Retention Recommendation 110000%% 90% 80% 77%77% 7744%% 7733%% 70% 67% 67% 60% 50% 40% 33% 33% 30% 20% 13%13% 12%12% 10% 6% 6%6% 5% 5% 5% 5% 4% 4% 4% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% Including Undecided Excluding Undecided Judge Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 9 ## Page 14 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Promptly making rulings during trial?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 54% 57% B 0% 18% 18% C 0% 4% 3% D 0% 1% 1% Fail 0% 0% 1% No Grade 67% 23% 21% Average 4.0 3.6 3.6 Letter Grade A B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 1 ## Page 15 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Beginning court on time?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 58% 62% B 33% 28% 25% C 0% 9% 7% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 0% 1% 2% Average 3.7 3.4 3.5 Letter Grade A- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 2 ## Page 16 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Allotting appropriate amount of time for cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 58% 56% B 33% 29% 28% C 0% 7% 8% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 0% 4% 4% Average 3.7 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade A- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 3 ## Page 17 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Keeping cases moving according to schedule?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 58% 58% B 33% 30% 28% C 0% 6% 7% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 0% 4% 4% Average 3.7 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade A- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 4 ## Page 18 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "[Civil only] Assisting parties to reach agreement?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 50% 22% 23% B 0% 18% 17% C 0% 6% 8% D 0% 2% 3% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 50% 51% 47% Average 4.0 3.1 3.0 Letter Grade A B B Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 5 ## Page 19 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1f. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 67% 66% B 33% 22% 22% C 0% 6% 7% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 33% 1% 2% Average 3.5 3.6 3.5 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 6 ## Page 20 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1g. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Promptly ruling on pre-trial motions?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 42% 44% B 33% 19% 21% C 33% 6% 8% D 0% 2% 3% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 0% 30% 24% Average 3.0 3.4 3.3 Letter Grade B B+ B Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 7 ## Page 21 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1h. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Promptly issuing a decision on the case after trial?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 47% 48% B 0% 15% 16% C 33% 4% 4% D 0% 1% 1% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 33% 32% 29% Average 3.0 3.6 3.5 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 8 ## Page 22 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1i. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Setting reasonable schedules for cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 55% 54% B 67% 26% 26% C 0% 6% 8% D 0% 2% 3% Fail 0% 1% 2% No Grade 0% 9% 8% Average 3.3 3.5 3.4 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 9 ## Page 23 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Basing decisions on evidence and arguments?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 53% 54% B 33% 25% 25% C 0% 9% 9% D 0% 4% 4% Fail 0% 3% 3% No Grade 33% 5% 5% Average 3.5 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B+ B B Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 10 ## Page 24 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving reasons for rulings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 55% 56% B 33% 25% 25% C 0% 9% 9% D 0% 4% 4% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 33% 4% 4% Average 3.5 3.3 3.4 Letter Grade B+ B B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 11 ## Page 25 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "[Civil only] Issuing written findings of fact and law?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 20% 27% B 0% 12% 16% C 0% 4% 6% D 0% 3% 3% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 67% 60% 47% Average 4.0 3.1 3.2 Letter Grade A B B Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 12 ## Page 26 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Willing to reconsider error in fact or law?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 26% 27% B 33% 17% 18% C 0% 9% 9% D 0% 5% 5% Fail 0% 4% 4% No Grade 33% 40% 38% Average 3.5 2.9 2.9 Letter Grade B+ B- B- Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 13 ## Page 27 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Having knowledge of relevant substantive law?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 51% 54% B 33% 29% 28% C 0% 8% 9% D 0% 4% 4% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 33% 4% 4% Average 3.5 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B+ B B Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 14 ## Page 28 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2f. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Having knowledge of rules of procedure and evidence?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 57% 60% B 0% 25% 24% C 33% 8% 8% D 0% 3% 3% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 33% 4% 4% Average 3.0 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 15 ## Page 29 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2g. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being able to identify and analyze relevant facts?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 58% 58% B 33% 25% 24% C 0% 8% 8% D 0% 4% 4% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 0% 4% 4% Average 3.7 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade A- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 16 ## Page 30 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2h. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "[Criminal only] Issuing consistent sentences when the circumstances are similar?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 44% 36% B 33% 20% 18% C 0% 6% 5% D 0% 3% 2% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 33% 26% 37% Average 3.5 3.4 3.3 Letter Grade B+ B+ B Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 17 ## Page 31 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2i. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Willing to make decision without regard to possible criticism?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 55% 54% B 0% 20% 20% C 33% 7% 7% D 0% 3% 3% Fail 0% 3% 3% No Grade 33% 12% 14% Average 3.0 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 18 ## Page 32 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2j. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Making decisions without fear of being appealed?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 54% 55% B 33% 21% 20% C 0% 5% 6% D 0% 3% 2% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 33% 16% 16% Average 3.5 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 19 ## Page 33 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 3a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Speaking clearly?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 78% 76% B 33% 18% 18% C 0% 3% 4% D 0% 1% 1% Fail 0% 0% 0% No Grade 0% 0% 1% Average 3.7 3.7 3.7 Letter Grade A- A- A- Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 20 ## Page 34 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 3b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Making sure all participants understand the proceedings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 71% 71% B 33% 22% 21% C 0% 4% 5% D 0% 1% 1% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 0% 1% 2% Average 3.7 3.6 3.6 Letter Grade A- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 21 ## Page 35 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 3c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Using understandable language?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 77% 76% B 33% 19% 19% C 0% 3% 3% D 0% 1% 1% Fail 0% 0% 0% No Grade 0% 0% 1% Average 3.7 3.7 3.7 Letter Grade A- A- A- Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 22 ## Page 36 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving proceedings a sense of dignity?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 69% 69% B 33% 20% 20% C 0% 6% 6% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 0% 0% 1% Average 3.7 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade A- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 23 ## Page 37 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating everyone involved politely?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 69% 69% B 33% 17% 17% C 0% 6% 7% D 0% 4% 3% Fail 0% 4% 4% No Grade 0% 0% 1% Average 3.7 3.5 3.4 Letter Grade A- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 24 ## Page 38 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Having empathy with the parties involved?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 56% 55% B 0% 22% 22% C 0% 10% 10% D 0% 4% 4% Fail 0% 4% 4% No Grade 33% 3% 4% Average 4.0 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade A B B Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 25 ## Page 39 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating participants with respect?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 68% 68% B 33% 19% 18% C 0% 6% 7% D 0% 3% 3% Fail 0% 3% 3% No Grade 0% 0% 1% Average 3.7 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade A- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 26 ## Page 40 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Presenting a neutral presence on the bench?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 62% 64% B 67% 21% 20% C 0% 8% 8% D 0% 5% 4% Fail 0% 3% 4% No Grade 0% 1% 1% Average 3.3 3.3 3.4 Letter Grade B B B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 27 ## Page 41 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4f. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being consistent in [his/her] behavior?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 64% 64% B 0% 22% 21% C 0% 6% 7% D 0% 3% 3% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 33% 3% 4% Average 4.0 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade A B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 28 ## Page 42 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4g. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Conducting [his/her] courtroom in a neutral manner?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 63% 64% B 33% 21% 20% C 0% 7% 7% D 0% 4% 4% Fail 0% 3% 3% No Grade 33% 1% 2% Average 3.5 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 29 ## Page 43 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4h. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving all participants an opportunity to be heard?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 70% 70% B 33% 20% 19% C 33% 6% 6% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 0% 1% 2% No Grade 0% 1% 1% Average 3.0 3.6 3.6 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 30 ## Page 44 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4i. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Consistently applying laws and rules?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 60% 59% B 33% 20% 21% C 0% 8% 8% D 0% 3% 3% Fail 0% 3% 3% No Grade 33% 6% 6% Average 3.5 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 31 ## Page 45 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4j. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Not engaging in ex parte communications?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 67% 60% 64% B 0% 14% 12% C 0% 4% 3% D 0% 1% 1% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 33% 20% 19% Average 4.0 3.6 3.7 Letter Grade A B+ A- Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 32 ## Page 46 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4k. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating pro se parties fairly?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 55% 51% B 33% 14% 11% C 0% 4% 3% D 0% 2% 1% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 33% 24% 33% Average 3.5 3.6 3.6 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 33 ## Page 47 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Making tough decisions when necessary?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 51% 53% B 0% 23% 22% C 33% 7% 7% D 0% 3% 3% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 33% 15% 13% Average 3.0 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 34 ## Page 48 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Using good judgment in application of relevant law and rules?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 54% 54% B 33% 25% 26% C 0% 9% 9% D 0% 4% 4% Fail 0% 3% 3% No Grade 33% 5% 4% Average 3.5 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B+ B B Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 35 ## Page 49 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Doing the necessary 'homework' and being prepared for [his/her] cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 52% 56% B 33% 23% 24% C 0% 8% 8% D 0% 3% 2% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 33% 12% 9% Average 3.5 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 36 ## Page 50 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being willing to handle cases on the docket even when they are complicated and time consuming?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 51% 54% B 33% 17% 18% C 0% 6% 6% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 0% 2% 2% No Grade 33% 21% 19% Average 3.5 3.4 3.5 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 37 ## Page 51 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Providing prompt access to the court in emergency matters?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 33% 38% 39% B 0% 14% 14% C 0% 4% 4% D 0% 2% 1% Fail 0% 1% 1% No Grade 67% 41% 40% Average 4.0 3.4 3.5 Letter Grade A B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 38 ## Page 52 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 6. How biased do you think Judge Carlson is towards the defense or the prosecution? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 5 0% 4% 3% ⇑ 4 0% 5% 4% 3 0% 7% 7% 2 0% 11% 10% 1 0% 15% 14% 0 Neutral 67% 53% 53% -1 33% 3% 4% -2 0% 1% 2% -3 0% 1% 2% -4 0% 1% 1% ⇓ -5 0% 0% 0% Average -0.3 0.9 0.7 noitucesorP drawoT esnefeD drawoT Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 39 ## Page 53 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 7. How lenient or harsh do you think the sentences handed down by Judge Carlson are? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 5 0% 2% 2% ⇑ 4 0% 3% 3% 3 0% 5% 4% 2 0% 8% 8% 1 0% 11% 10% 0 Appropriate 67% 63% 60% -1 33% 4% 4% -2 0% 2% 3% -3 0% 2% 3% -4 0% 1% 1% ⇓ -5 0% 0% 1% Average -0.3 0.5 0.3 hsraH oT thgiL oT Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 40 ## Page 54 Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 12. Do you recommend that Judge Carlson be retained in office or not be retained in office? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 Strongly Recommend 33% 77% 77% Retain in office Somewhat Recommend 67% 13% 13% Retain in office Somewhat Recommend Not 0% 5% 4% Retain in office Strongly Recommend Not Retain in office 0% 6% 6% Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 41 ## Page 55 NNoonn--AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy ((SSaammppllee SSiizzee 1144)) ## Page 56 Max E. Carlson NNoonn-AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Average Grades: Overall and by Section 3.1 Overall Average 3.5 3.6 2.9 QQ11. OOvveerraallll DDeemmeeaannoorr 33.55 3.6 3.0 Q2. Overall Fairness 3.5 3.6 3.2 Q3. Overall 3.6 Communications 3.7 3.0 Q4. Overall Diligence 3.5 3.6 2.9 Q5. Overall Application of 3.4 Law 3.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 AAverage GGradde Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 1 ## Page 57 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey Average Grades: Demeanor 2.9 Q1. Overall Demeanor 3.5 3.6 33.00 1a. Giving court proceedings a 3.5 sense of dignity 3.6 3.1 1b. Treating participants politely 3.5 and with respect 3.6 2.9 1c. Conducting [his/her] 3.5 courtroom in a neutral manner 3.6 2.6 1d. Having a sense of compassion and human 3.4 understanding for those who appear before the judge 3.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 2 ## Page 58 Max E. Carlson NNoonn-AAttttoorrnneeyy SSuurrvveeyy Average Grades: Fairness 3.0 Q2. Overall Fairness 3.5 3.6 3.2 2a. Giving participants an 3.5 opportunity to be heard 3.6 2.7 2b. Treating those involved with 3.5 the case without bias 3.5 2.9 2c. Treating fairly people who 3.4 represent themselves 3.5 2.8 2d. Giving each side enough 3.5 time to present his or her case 33.66 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 3 ## Page 59 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey Average Grades: Communications 3.2 Q3. Overall Communications 3.6 3.7 3.3 3a. Making sure all participants understand the 3.6 proceedings, and what's going on in the courtroom 3.6 3.2 3b. Using language that 3.6 everyone can understand 3.7 3.3 3c. Speaking clearly so everyone in the courtroom can 3.7 hear what's being said 3.7 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 4 ## Page 60 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey Average Grades: Diligence 3.0 Q4. Overall Diligence 3.5 3.6 2.9 44a. BBegiinniing courtt on ttiime 33.44 3.4 3.2 4b. Maintaining appropriate 33..66 conttroll over proceeddiings 3.7 2.8 4c. Setting reasonable 3.5 sscchheedduulleess ffoorr ccaasseess 3.6 3.1 4d. Being prepared for [his/her] 3.6 cases 3.6 2.9 4e. Managing court proceedings so that there is 3.5 little wasted time 3.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 5 ## Page 61 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey Average Grades: Application and Knowledge of Law 2.9 Q5. Overall App of Law 3.4 3.5 2.9 5a. Giving reasons for rulings 3.4 3.5 2.7 5b. Willing to make decision without regard to possible 3.5 outside pressure 3.5 2.9 5c. Being able to identify and 3.4 analyze relevant facts 33.55 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 6 ## Page 62 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey Average: How biased do you think Judge Carlson is toward the defense or prosecution? Max E. Carlson -1.3 All County Judges 0.1 All Trial Judges 0.1 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 (cid:205) Defense Prosecution (cid:206) Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 7 ## Page 63 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey Average: How lenient or how harsh are Judge Carlson's sentences? Max E. Carlson -1.9 All County Judges 0.0 All Trial Judges 0.0 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 (cid:205) Lenient Harsh (cid:206) Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 8 ## Page 64 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey Retention Recommendation 100% 90% 85% 81% 80% 78% 74% 70% 63% 60% 5500%% 42% 40% 33% 30% 25% 20% 17% 13% 9% 9% 10% 8% 8% 8% 8% 7% 7% 6% 5% 5% 3% 3% 2% 2% 0% 0% 0% Including Undecided Excluding Undecided Judge Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 9 ## Page 65 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 1a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving proceedings a sense of dignity?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 38% 69% 73% B 38% 19% 18% C 15% 6% 4% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 8% 2% 2% No Grade 0% 2% 1% Average 3.0 3.5 3.6 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 1 ## Page 66 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 1b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating participants politely and with respect?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 54% 72% 76% B 15% 16% 14% C 23% 5% 4% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 8% 4% 3% No Grade 0% 1% 1% Average 3.1 3.5 3.6 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 2 ## Page 67 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 1c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Conducting [his/her] courtroom in a neutral manner?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 38% 70% 74% B 38% 16% 14% C 8% 5% 5% D 8% 2% 2% Fail 8% 4% 3% No Grade 0% 2% 1% Average 2.9 3.5 3.6 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 3 ## Page 68 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 1d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Having a sense of compassion and human understanding for those who appear before the judge?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 15% 65% 69% B 46% 18% 17% C 31% 6% 5% D 0% 3% 2% Fail 8% 5% 4% No Grade 0% 3% 3% Average 2.6 3.4 3.5 Letter Grade C+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 4 ## Page 69 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 2a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving participants an opportunity to be heard?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 46% 72% 75% B 31% 15% 14% C 8% 5% 4% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 8% 4% 3% No Grade 8% 2% 2% Average 3.2 3.5 3.6 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 5 ## Page 70 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 2b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating those involved in the case without bias?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 31% 70% 73% B 31% 15% 14% C 8% 4% 4% D 15% 3% 2% Fail 8% 5% 4% No Grade 8% 3% 3% Average 2.7 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 6 ## Page 71 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 2c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating fairly people who represent themselves?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 38% 52% 49% B 31% 11% 9% C 8% 4% 3% D 8% 2% 1% Fail 8% 4% 3% No Grade 8% 27% 35% Average 2.9 3.4 3.5 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 7 ## Page 72 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 2d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving each side enough time to present his or her case?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 31% 69% 72% B 23% 15% 14% C 8% 5% 4% D 8% 2% 2% Fail 8% 3% 3% No Grade 23% 6% 5% Average 2.8 3.5 3.6 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 8 ## Page 73 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 3a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Making sure participants understand the proceedings, and what's going on in the courtroom?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 62% 74% 76% B 15% 14% 14% C 8% 6% 5% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 8% 2% 2% No Grade 8% 2% 2% Average 3.3 3.6 3.6 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 9 ## Page 74 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 3b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Using language that everyone can understand?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 46% 74% 76% B 38% 17% 16% C 8% 5% 4% D 0% 1% 1% Fail 8% 1% 1% No Grade 0% 1% 1% Average 3.2 3.6 3.7 Letter Grade B B+ A- Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 10 ## Page 75 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 3c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Speaking clearly so everyone in the courtroom can hear what's being said?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 62% 76% 78% B 23% 15% 14% C 8% 5% 4% D 0% 1% 1% Fail 8% 1% 1% No Grade 0% 1% 1% Average 3.3 3.7 3.7 Letter Grade B A- A- Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 11 ## Page 76 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 4a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Beginning court on time?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 57% 59% 61% B 14% 23% 24% C 7% 9% 8% D 7% 3% 2% Fail 14% 3% 2% No Grade 0% 4% 4% Average 2.9 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 12 ## Page 77 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 4b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 69% 75% 77% B 8% 16% 15% C 8% 5% 4% D 8% 1% 1% Fail 8% 1% 1% No Grade 0% 2% 2% Average 3.2 3.6 3.7 Letter Grade B B+ A- Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 13 ## Page 78 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 4c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Setting reasonable schedules for cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 31% 59% 62% B 38% 17% 17% C 0% 6% 5% D 0% 1% 1% Fail 15% 2% 2% No Grade 15% 15% 13% Average 2.8 3.5 3.6 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 14 ## Page 79 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 4d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being prepared for [his/her] cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 46% 67% 71% B 23% 15% 14% C 15% 5% 4% D 0% 2% 1% Fail 8% 3% 2% No Grade 8% 9% 8% Average 3.1 3.6 3.6 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 15 ## Page 80 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 4e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Managing court proceedings so that there is little wasted time?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 54% 64% 66% B 15% 20% 20% C 8% 7% 7% D 15% 2% 2% Fail 8% 3% 2% No Grade 0% 3% 3% Average 2.9 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 16 ## Page 81 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 5a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving reasons for rulings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 43% 62% 65% B 21% 16% 16% C 7% 7% 5% D 0% 3% 2% Fail 14% 4% 3% No Grade 14% 9% 9% Average 2.9 3.4 3.5 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 17 ## Page 82 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 5b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Willing to make decision without regard to possible outside pressure?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 31% 57% 59% B 15% 12% 12% C 8% 4% 4% D 0% 2% 2% Fail 15% 4% 3% No Grade 31% 21% 20% Average 2.7 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 18 ## Page 83 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 5c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being able to identify and analyze relevant facts?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 A 46% 64% 66% B 0% 14% 14% C 8% 5% 4% D 0% 3% 3% Fail 15% 4% 4% No Grade 31% 10% 10% Average 2.9 3.4 3.5 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 19 ## Page 84 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 6. How biased do you think Judge Carlson is towards the defense or the prosecution? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 5 0% 2% 2% ⇑ 4 0% 2% 1% 3 0% 2% 2% 2 0% 2% 2% 1 17% 5% 5% 0 Neutral 50% 78% 82% -1 0% 3% 3% -2 0% 1% 1% -3 0% 1% 1% -4 17% 1% 1% ⇓ -5 17% 1% 1% Average -1.3 0.1 0.1 noitucesorP drawoT esnefeD drawoT Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 20 ## Page 85 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 7. How lenient or harsh do you think the sentences handed down by Judge Carlson are? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2008 Judges 2008 5 0% 3% 2% ⇑ 4 14% 2% 2% 3 0% 2% 2% 2 0% 3% 2% 1 0% 3% 3% 0 Appropriate 14% 73% 76% -1 0% 5% 5% -2 29% 3% 4% -3 14% 2% 2% -4 0% 2% 1% ⇓ -5 29% 2% 1% Average -1.9 0.0 0.0 hsraH oT thgiL oT Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 21 ## Page 86 Max E. Carlson Non-Attorney Survey 12. Do you recommend that Judge Carlson be retained in office or not be retained in office? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2006 Judges 2008 Strongly Recommend 63% 81% 85% Retain in office Somewhat Recommend 0% 9% 8% Retain in office Somewhat Recommend Not 13% 3% 2% Retain in office Strongly Recommend Not Retain in office 25% 7% 5% Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 22 ## Page 87 MMeetthhooddoollooggyy ## Page 88 MMeetthhooddoollooggyy Sample: The databases of names and addresses of the people who had likely been in each judge’s courtroom were primarily provided by the Colorado Judicial Department, Colorado District Attorneys’ Council and the Denver County Courts. These three sources provided name and address data in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. Starting in the second quarter of 2007, the data was provided quarterly. Where there were low sample counts, this data was supplemented by contacting district court administrators for additional sample of particular types of potential respondents. The data was then combined, duplicates removed and addresses corrected— quarterly starting in 2007. Depending on the available number of names and the count of already received surveys for a particular judge, either all or a random sample of names were drawn. Included in the data cleaning was the identification of potential respondents in the sample who had appeared in more than two judges’ courtrooms. Due to concerns about respondent fatigue, no more than two questionnaires were intended to be sent to any one respondent—though there were a few instances where one respondent did receive more than two questionnaires. Where a person had been in more than two judges’ courtrooms, the selection criteria for which judges he or she would be sent questionnaires was generally: first, for the judge in whose courtroom the potential respondent had been in most often, and two, the judge with the smallest sample of the judges in whose courtroom the potential respondent had appeared. Survey: Each person whose name was drawn was mailed an initial postcard informing the recipient that he or she would be receiving a questionnaire. Two to three weeks after the post card was mailed, the potential respondent would be sent a personalized introductory letter and a questionnaire with a postage-paid return envelope. Those who did not respond to the first questionnaire were then sent a sent follow-up postcard. If the person did not respond after the follow-up postcard, a second questionnaire and letter were sent and in some instances a second follow-up postcard was sent after the second letter and questionnaire. In order to increase the number of attorney responses, particularly for judges with few attorney responses, telephone interviews were conducted with attorneys who had not responded to the mailed questionnaires. Over 900 interviews were completed by telephone. 1 ## Page 89 Questionnaire: The questionnaire used in the 2008 Judicial Performance Survey asked respondents to use a grade of A, B, C, D, or F (Fail) to assess the judge’s performance in five different areas. For attorney respondents these areas were Case Management, Application and Knowledge of Law, Communications, Demeanor and Diligence, and for non-attorney respondents the five were Demeanor, Fairness, Communications, Diligence and Application of Law. These scores were then converted to a numerical value where A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D = 1 and Fail = 0. Copies of the questionnaires are included at the end of this report. Response: The estimated response rate is calculated as the number of completed questionnaires divided by the number of eligible respondents who actually received a questionnaire. The following table shows the total number of questionnaires mailed, completed, non-responses & refusals, undeliverables and other responses. The table presents the estimated overall response rate as well as the response rate by the different types of respondents. The true response rates are likely considerably higher than shown because of the relatively high percentage of people who were mailed questionnaires about judges who they had not observed in court. This is due, in part, to many cases being disposed of without the parties having appeared in court, as well as in the case of law enforcement, the data includes all those who were subpoenaed for a case, not just those who appeared. A similar table showing the response counts and estimated cooperation rate for your survey is provided at the end of this methodology section. 2 ## Page 90 Total No Undeliverable/ Other Non- Cooperation Sent Response Not Applicable responses Completes Rate Attorneys Criminal District Attorneys 841 306 93 2 440 58.8% Defense Attorneys 1,082 341 102 2 637 65.0% Other Attorneys Crmnl 809 418 27 3 361 46.2% Civil Attorneys for Litigants 1,395 312 171 13 899 73.4% Other Attorneys Civil 598 280 53 2 263 48.3% Attorneys, Unknown Role 852 289 77 2 484 62.5% Total Attorneys 5,577 1,946 523 24 3,084 61.0% Non-attorneys Criminal Law Enforcement 8,170 5,431 1,417 34 1,288 19.1% Defendant 13,787 9,091 3,737 25 934 9.3% Victim 295 222 63 2 8 3.4% Witness 1,886 1,342 453 5 86 6.0% Other 5,396 3,532 1,301 43 520 12.7% Civil Litigant 6,552 4,390 1,109 21 1,032 19.0% Witness 46 31 5 0 10 24.4% Other 59 29 15 0 15 34.1% Non-attnys, Unknown Role 5,065 2,598 1,843 12 612 19.0% Total Non-attorneys 41,256 26,666 9,943 142 4,505 14.4% Others Appellate Judges 26 6 0 0 20 76.9% Jurors 10,214 4,940 460 22 4,792 49.1% Total Other 10,240 4,946 460 22 4,812 49.2% Total 57,073 33,558 10,926 188 12,401 26.9% 3 ## Page 91 Results: The results of the Survey are in two main sections: Attorney respondents and Non-attorney respondents. Within the Attorney and Non-attorney section are subsections of graphs displaying average grades for each section of the questionnaire and each question and tables showing the percentage distribution of grades. Graphs: The graphs visually display the overall average numerical grades received for all grade questions, each section and each question compared to averages for all county judges, and all trial judges for which 2008 surveys were conducted. Questions relating to bias toward the defense or prosecution, sentencing and retention recommendation are also graphed. Percentage Distribution of Grades: This section shows the percentage of each grade received on each question plus the bias, sentencing and retention questions. An average grade point for each graded question is computed and shown in the results section. A letter grade is also assigned to each grade point according to the following scale. A = 4.00 B = 3.00 to 3.33 C = 2.00 to 2.33 D = 1.00 to 1.33 A— = 3.67 to 3.99 B—= 2.67 to 2.99 C—= 1.67 to 1.99 D— = 0.67 to 0.99 B+ = 3.34 to 3.66 C+ = 2.34 to 2.66 D+ = 1.34 to 1.66 Fail = 0.00 to 0.66 This section also includes two comparative columns of results: one comparative column shows the results for that question for county judges surveyed in 2008, along with a second comparative column showing the results for all trial judges in the 2008 survey. Projectability: Most surveys seen by the public are surveys that are intended to be projectable, that is the results from the sample of people surveyed can be used to estimate a percentage or value of the population sampled with a known probability of error. For example, a pre-election poll of 500 likely Colorado voters is used to estimate the percentage of voters who will vote for Candidate A on election day, plus or minus some number of percentage points. The plus or minus amount is usually what is known as the 95%- confidence interval (the known probability of error), or what the media often refers to as the margin-of-error. The Colorado Judicial Performance Evaluation Survey is not projectable with a known probability of error because the results are calculated from a self- selecting sample that is self-selecting based on the content and subject matter of the survey. In other words, the potential respondent knows the purpose and content of the survey, and based on that, decides whether to respond to the survey. 4 ## Page 92 While projectability within a known probability of error is a highly desirable attribute of a survey, it is often not feasible to achieve. Commercial market research often uses nonprojectable (and small) samples—the most well known of which are for focus groups. Moreover, the federal courts have long accepted, and do not expect, projectable samples for market confusion surveys used in trademark litigation. In other words, one can still use the results of the Judicial Performance Evaluation Survey to estimate how everyone who has observed a judge in the courtroom would grade him or her, just not with a known probability of error. The Judicial Performance Evaluation Survey is a valuable means, perhaps the only practical means, for the Judicial Performance Commissions to have a summary of structured interviews with a number of people who have courtroom familiarity with the judge being evaluated, and who most often— albeit not always—are responding out of a desire to improve the performance of our state’s judicial system. 5 ## Page 93 Max E. Carlson Responses by Type Total No Undeliverable/ Other Non- Coop Role Type Sent Response Not Applicable Responses Completes Rate Attorneys Criminal District Attorneys 2 0 0 0 2 100.0% Defense Attorneys 1 1 0 0 0 0.0% Other Attorneys Criminal 1 0 0 0 1 100.0% Attorneys, Unknown Role Type 1 1 0 0 0 0.0% Total Attorneys 5 2 0 0 3 40.0% Non-attorneys Criminal Law Enforcement 4 3 0 0 1 25.0% Defendant 32 24 3 1 4 13.8% Witness 2 0 1 0 1 100.0% Civil Litigant 13 10 0 0 3 23.1% Non-attorneys, Unknown Role Type 15 8 2 0 5 38.5% Total Non-attorneys 66 45 6 1 14 75.0% Grand Total: 71 47 6 1 17 26.2% Judicial Performance Survey 2008 Page 1 ## Page 94 QQuueessttiioonnnnaaiirreess ## Page 95 Commission on Judicial Performance 10. And what would you say are Judge [Last Name]’s weaknesses? _ Attorney Questionnaire _ _ Evaluation of _ _ JUDGE [NAME] 11. Is there anything else that you would like to say about Judge [Last Name]? _ Using a grade scale, where an “A” is excellent along with B, C, D or F for fail, _ please grade the judge on the following. (If you feel that you don not have _ experience with the judge in a specific area, or just don’t know, please circle the _ number corresponding to “Don’t Know/Not Applicable”—DK/NS). _ DK 1. Case Management: A B C D F N/A 12. Keeping in mind your responses to each of the previous questions, how a. Promptly making rulings during trial. 4 3 2 1 0 9 strongly do you recommend that Judge [Last Name] be retained in office, or not retained in office? b. Beginning court on time. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Allotting appropriate amount of time for cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Strongly recommend he be retained in office. 5 Somewhat recommend he be retained in office . 4 d. Keeping cases moving according to schedule. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Undecided or don’t know enough to make recommendation . 3 e. [Civil only]1 Assisting parties to reach agreement. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Somewhat recommend he not be retained in office . 2 f. Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Strongly recommend he not be retained in office . 1 g. Promptly ruling on pre-trial motions. 4 3 2 1 0 9 And why do you think that way about retaining or not retaining Judge [Last h. Promptly issuing a decision on the case after trial. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Name]? i. Setting reasonable schedules for cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 _ DK _ 2. Application and Knowledge of Law: A B C D F N/A _ a. Basing decisions on evidence and arguments. 4 3 2 1 0 9 _ b. Giving reasons for rulings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 _ _ c. [Civil only]1 Issuing written findings of fact and law. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Willing to reconsider error in fact or law. 4 3 2 1 0 9 e. Having knowledge of relevant substantive law. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Thank you for your time in completing this questionnaire. f. Having knowledge of rules of procedure Please place it in the self-addressed, postage paid enveloped and evidence. 4 3 2 1 0 9 provided, and place it in the mail. Your participation in this g. Being able to identify and analyze relevant facts. 4 3 2 1 0 9 survey is very much appreciated. h. [Criminal only]2 Issuing consistent sentences when the circumstances are similar. 4 3 2 1 0 9 i. Willing to make decisions without regard to possible criticism. 4 3 2 1 0 9 j. Making decisions without fear of being appealed . 4 3 2 1 0 9 DK 1 Please answer questions 1e & 2c only if you have observed the judge in a civil case. 2 Please answer question 2h only if you have observed the judge in a criminal case. ## Page 96 3. Communications: A B C D F N/A 6. [Criminal cases only] 1 On the scale below, please indicate by circling the a. Speaking clearly. 4 3 2 1 0 9 appropriate number how biased you think Judge [Last Name] is toward b. Makings sure all participants understand the defense or the prosecution. If you feel Judge [Last Name] is the proceedings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 completely unbiased, circle “0.” c. Using understandable language. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Bias toward Completely Bias toward Defense Neutral Prosecution d. Providing written communications that are clear, thorough and well reasoned. 4 3 2 1 0 9 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 DK 7. [Criminal cases only]1 On the scale below, please indicate by circling the 4. Demeanor: A B C D F N/A appropriate number how lenient or how harsh you think the sentences a. Giving proceedings a sense of dignity. 4 3 2 1 0 9 generally handed down by Judge [Last Name] are. If you feel Judge [Last b. Treating everyone involved politely. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Name] generally hands down appropriate sentences, circle “0.” c. Having empathy with the parties involved. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Sentences Appropriate Sentences d. Treating participants with respect. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Too Light Sentences Too Harsh e. Presenting a neutral presence on the bench. 4 3 2 1 0 9 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 f. Being consistent in his/her behavior 4 3 2 1 0 9 g. Conducting his/her courtroom in a neutral manner. 4 3 2 1 0 9 Though your name will never be associated with your answers, because the judge will h. Giving all participants an opportunity to be heard. 4 3 2 1 0 9 see a typed transcript of the comments that you and others write, it is important that i. Consistently applying laws and rules. 4 3 2 1 0 9 you do not include information in the comments below that would unintentionally identify you as the author. j. Not engaging in ex parte communications 4 3 2 1 0 9 k. Treating pro se parties fairly. 4 3 2 1 0 9 8. If an associate were assigned to Judge [Last Name] in a case and asked you for advice, what would you say? DK ________________________________________________________ 5. Diligence: A B C D F N/A ________________________________________________________ a. Making tough decisions when necessary. 4 3 2 1 0 9 ________________________________________________________ b. Using good judgment in application of relevant ________________________________________________________ law and rules. 4 3 2 1 0 9 ________________________________________________________ c. Doing the necessary “homework” and being 9. What would you say are Judge [Last Name]’s strengths? prepared for his/her cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 ___________________________________________________________ d. Being willing to handle cases on the docket even ___________________________________________________________ when they are complicated and time consuming. 4 3 2 1 0 9 ___________________________________________________________ e. Providing prompt access to the court ___________________________________________________________ in emergency matters. 4 3 2 1 0 9 ___________________________________________________________ [Continued on Back Page] {Question 3d is asked only regarding district judges.} 1 Please answer questions 6 & 7 only if you have observed the judge in a criminal case. ## Page 97 12. Keeping in mind your responses to each of the previous questions, how Commission on Judicial Performance strongly do you recommend that Judge [Last Name] be retained in office, or not retained in office? Strongly recommend he/she be retained in office ................................ 5 Evaluation of Somewhat recommend he/she be retained in office ............................ 4 JUDGE[NAME] Undecided or don’t know enough to make recommendation ............. 3 Somewhat recommend he/she not be retained in office ..................... 2 Strongly recommend he/she not be retained in office ......................... 1 Using a grade scale, where an “A” is excellent along with B, C, D or F for fail, please grade the judge on the following. (If you feel that you don’t have experience with the judge in a specific area, or just don’t know, please circle the And why do you think that way about retaining or not retaining Judge number corresponding to “Don’t Know/Not Applicable”—DK/NA). [Last Name]? _____________________________________________________________ DK _____________________________________________________________ 1. Demeanor: A B C D F N/A _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ a. Giving court proceedings a sense of dignity. 4 3 2 1 0 9 _____________________________________________________________ b. Treating participants in the case politely _____________________________________________________________ and with respect. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Conducting his/her courtroom in a neutral manner. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Having a sense of compassion and human Thank you for you time in completing this questionnaire. Please understanding for those who appear place it in the self-addressed, postage paid enveloped provided, before him/her. 4 3 2 1 0 9 and place it in the mail. Your participation in this survey is very much appreciated. DK 2. Fairness: A B C D F N/A a. Giving participants an opportunity to be heard. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Treating those involved in the case without bias. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Treating fairly people who represent themselves. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Giving each side enough time to present his or her case. 4 3 2 1 0 9 DK 3. Communications: A B C D F N/A a. Makings sure participants understand the proceedings, and what’s going on in the courtroom. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Using language that everyone can understand. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Speaking clearly so everyone in the courtroom can hear what’s being said. 4 3 2 1 0 9 ## Page 98 DK Though your name will never be associated with your answers, because the judge will 4. Diligence: A B C D F N/A see a typed transcript of the comments that you and others write, it is important that a. Beginning court on time. 4 3 2 1 0 9 you do not include information in the comments below that would unintentionally identify you as the author. b. Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 8. If a friend of yours was scheduled to appear before Judge [Last Name] c. Setting reasonable schedules for cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 as a party in either a civil or criminal case and asked you for advice, what d. Being prepared for his/her cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 would you tell your friend about Judge [Last Name] ? e. Managing court proceedings so that there is _ little wasted time. 4 3 2 1 0 9 _ _ _ DK _ 5. Application of Law: A B C D F N/A _ a. Giving reasons for rulings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Willing to make decision without regard to 9. What would you say are Judge [Last Name]’s strengths? possible outside pressure. 4 3 2 1 0 9 _ c. Being able to identify and analyze relevant facts. 4 3 2 1 0 9 _ _ _ _ 6. [If you were in [Last Name]’s courtroom during a criminal case or _ cases please answer this question, otherwise skip to the next question.] On the scale below, please indicate by circling the appropriate number how biased you think Judge [Last Name] is toward the defense or 10. And what would you say are Judge [Last Name]’s weaknesses? the prosecution. If you feel Judge [Last Name] is completely unbiased, _ circle “0.” _ _ Bias toward Completely Bias toward _ Defense Neutral Prosecution _ 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 _ 7. [If you were in [Last Name]’s courtroom during a criminal case or 11. Is there anything else that you would like to say about Judge cases please answer this question, otherwise skip to the next [Last Name] ? question.] On the scale below, please indicate by circling the appropriate _ number how lenient or how harsh you think the sentences generally handed _ down by [Last Name] are. If you feel Judge [Last Name] generally hands _ down appropriate sentences, circle “0.” _ Sentences Appropriate Sentences _ Too Light Sentences Too Harsh _ 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 Continued on Back Page
• 2004 cycle
  • 2004 Retention Survey Report(PDF on OJPE)
    Read full retention survey textexpandcollapse

    ## Page 1 State of Colorado Logo COMMISSION ON JUDICIAL PERFORMANCE 2004 Judicial Performance Survey TThhee HHoonnoorraabbllee MMaaxx EE.. CCaarrllssoonn ## Page 2 March 22, 2004 The Honorable Max E. Carlson County Judge, 13th Judicial District Sedgwick County Courthouse Third & Pine Julesburg, Co. 80737 Dear Judge Carlson: Every two years the Colorado Judicial Performance Commission conducts a survey of people who have been in the courtroom of judges who face a retention vote in the next general election. The 2004 survey was conducted by Talmey-Drake Research & Strategy, Inc., who attempted to contact over 35,000 people who had been in these courtrooms in one capacity or another. Over 10,000 people responded—3,683 to the attorney survey and 6,330 to the non-attorney survey. This report contains the results of those who were in your courtroom and who responded to the survey. In addition to this introduction, the report is divided into four main sections: · Attorney Results & Comments: This section contains graphs displaying the average grade you received overall (the combined average from questions 1a through 5e as required by the recent rule changes) , each section and each question. Following the graphs, are a series of tables showing the percentage distribution of responses to each question. Attorney respondents were also asked to comment about your performance. These comments have been transcribed, and in some instances redacted to eliminate respondent identifying information. A copy of the attorney questionnaire is at the back of this report. · Non-attorney Results & Comments: Similar to the Attorney section, this portion of the report contains graphs (again including the overall average of questions 1a through 5c on the non-attorney questionnaire), the percentage distribution of responses by non-attorneys to each substantive question in the survey. The non-attorney respondents were also asked to comment about your performance. Again, these comments have been transcribed, and in some instances redacted to eliminate respondent identifying information. A copy of the non-attorney questionnaire is also at the back of this report. · Methodology: The third section of the report discusses the methodology of the survey. · Questionnaires: And the final section provides copies of the questionnaires that were used. 100 Arap ahoe, Suite One, Boulder, CO 80302 Phone 303.443.5300 Fax 303.447.9386 ## Page 3 The Honorable Max E. Carlson March 22, 2004 Page 2 If you have any questions about the methodology and how the survey was conducted, please feel free to contact me at 303-443-5300, and for any other questions you might have about the survey please call the Director of the Colorado Judicial Performance Program, Michelle Stermer, at 303-837-3665. Best regards, Paul A. Talmey President enc: ## Page 4 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey Average Grades: Overall and by Section 3.2 Overall Average 3.4 3.3 3.3 Q1. Overall Case 3.4 Management 3.3 3.1 Q2. Overall App & 3.3 Knowldge of Law 3.2 3.4 Q3. Overall 3.6 Communications 3.5 3.3 Q4. Overall Demeanor 3.4 3.4 3.1 Q5. Overall Diligence 3.3 3.3 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 1 ## Page 5 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey Average Grades: Case Management 3.2 Q1. Overall Case Management 3.4 3.3 3.4 1a. Promptly making rulings 3.5 during trial 3.5 3.3 1b. Beginning court on time 3.3 3.4 3.3 1c. Allotting appropriate 3.3 amount of time for cases 3.3 3.2 1d. Keeping cases moving 3.4 according to schedule 3.3 2.5 1e. Assisting parties to reach 3.1 agreement 3 3.3 1f. Maintaining appropriate 3.5 control over proceedings 3.4 3 1g. Promptly ruling on pre-trial 3.3 motions 3.2 3.4 1h. Promptly issuing a 3.5 decision on the case after trial 3.4 3.3 1i. Setting reasonable 3.4 schedules for cases 3.3 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 2 ## Page 6 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey Average Grades: Application and Knowledge of Law 3.1 Q2. Overall App & Knowldge of 3.3 Law 3.2 3.3 2a. Basing decisions on 3.2 evidence and arguments 3.2 3.3 2b. Giving reasons for rulings 3.3 3.3 2.5 2c. Issuing written findings of 3 fact and law 3.1 3 2d. Willing to reconsider error 2.9 in fact or law 2.9 2.8 2e. Having knowledge of 3.2 relevant substantive law 3.2 2.8 2f. Having knowledge of rules 3.3 of procedure and evidence 3.3 2.8 2g. Being able to identify and 3.3 analyze relevant facts 3.3 2h. Issuing consistent 3.2 sentences when the 3.3 circumstances are similar 3.2 2i. Willing to make decision 3.2 without regard to possible 3.3 criticism 3.3 3.2 2j. Making decisions without 3.4 fear of being appealed 3.4 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Max E. Carlson Average Grade All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 3 ## Page 7 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey Average Grades: Communications 3.3 Q3. Overall Communications 3.6 3.6 3.5 3a. Speaking clearly 3.5 3.5 3.3 3b. Making sure all participants understand the 3.6 proceedings 3.6 3.9 3c. Using understandable 3.6 language 3.6 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Max E. Carlson Average Grade All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 4 ## Page 8 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey Average Grades: Demeanor 3.3 Q4. Overall Demeanor 3.4 3.4 3.5 4a. Giving proceedings a 3.5 sense of dignity 3.5 3.3 4b. Treating everyone 3.4 involved politely 3.4 3.2 4c. Having empathy with the 3.2 parties involved 3.2 3.3 4d. Treating participants with 3.4 respect 3.4 3.2 4e. Presenting a neutral 3.3 presence on the bench 3.3 3.3 4f. Being consistent in his/her 3.4 behavior 3.3 4g. Conducting his/her 3.3 courtroom in a neutral 3.3 manner 3.3 3.3 4h. Giving all participants an 3.5 opportunity to be heard 3.4 3.3 4i. Consistently applying laws 3.3 and rules 3.3 2.8 4j. Not engaging in ex parte 3.5 communications 3.6 3 4k. Treating pro se parties 3.4 fairly 3.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Max E. Carlson Average Grade All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 5 ## Page 9 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey Average Grades: Diligence 3.1 Q5. Overall Diligence 3.3 3.2 3 5a. Making tough decisions 3.3 when necessary 3.3 3.2 5b. Using good judgment in application of relevant law and 3.2 rules 3.2 3.2 5c. Doing the necessary "homework" and being 3.3 prepared for his/her cases 3.2 5d. Being willing to handle 3.2 cases on the docket even when they are 3.4 complicatedand time consuming 3.3 3 5e. Providing prompt access to the court in emergency 3.4 matters 3.3 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Max E. Carlson All County Judges Average Grade All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 6 ## Page 10 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey Q6. Average: How biased do you think Judge Carlson is toward the defense or prosecution? Max E. Carlson 0.8 All County 0.8 Judges All Trial Judges 0.7 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 ç Defense Prosecution è Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 7 ## Page 11 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey Q7. Average: How lenient or how harsh are Judge Carlson's sentences? Max E. Carlson 0.2 All County 0.5 Judges All Trial Judges 0.4 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 ç Lenient Harsh è Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 8 ## Page 12 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey Retention Recommendation 90% 80% 80% 74% 73% 70% 69% 70% 67% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 20% 17% 17% 17% 16% 16% 15% 10% 6%6% 6%6% 5%5% 4%4% 4%4% 0% Str o n gl y n ot r et ai n m e w h at n ot r et ai n U n d e ci d e d S o m e w h at r et ai n Str o n gl y r et ai n Str o n gl y n ot r et ai n m e w h at n ot r et ai n S o m e w h at r et ai n Str o n gl y r et ai n o o S S Judge Carlson Including Undecided Excluding Undecided All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 9 ## Page 13 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Promptly making rulings during trial?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 51% 51% B 50% 22% 24% C 6% 6% D 1% 1% Fail 1% 1% No Grade 17% 19% 17% Average 3.4 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 1 ## Page 14 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Beginning court on time?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 53% 54% B 67% 30% 29% C 10% 9% D 3% 3% Fail 1% 1% No Grade 3% 4% Average 3.3 3.3 3.4 Letter Grade B B B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 2 ## Page 15 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Allotting appropriate amount of time for cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 50% 49% B 67% 31% 30% C 9% 10% D 3% 3% Fail 1% 1% No Grade 6% 6% Average 3.3 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 3 ## Page 16 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Keeping cases moving according to schedule?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 52% 50% B 83% 31% 30% C 9% 10% D 3% 4% Fail 1% 1% No Grade 5% 5% Average 3.2 3.4 3.3 Letter Grade B B+ B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 4 ## Page 17 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Assisting parties to reach agreement?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 21% 25% B 17% 16% 18% C 17% 8% 10% D 3% 4% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 67% 51% 41% Average 2.5 3.1 3 Letter Grade C+ B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 5 ## Page 18 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1f. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 59% 58% B 67% 27% 27% C 8% 8% D 2% 2% Fail 1% 1% No Grade 4% 3% Average 3.3 3.5 3.4 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 6 ## Page 19 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1g. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Promptly ruling on pre-trial motions?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 41% 39% B 33% 21% 24% C 33% 8% 10% D 3% 4% Fail 1% 2% No Grade 27% 21% Average 3 3.3 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 7 ## Page 20 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1h. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Promptly issuing a decision on the case after trial?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 47% 44% B 50% 20% 21% C 6% 7% D 1% 2% Fail 1% 2% No Grade 17% 25% 24% Average 3.4 3.5 3.4 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 8 ## Page 21 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 1i. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Setting reasonable schedules for cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 50% 47% B 67% 29% 30% C 9% 10% D 2% 3% Fail 1% 2% No Grade 9% 8% Average 3.3 3.4 3.3 Letter Grade B B+ B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 9 ## Page 22 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Basing decisions on evidence and arguments?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 50% 49% 49% B 33% 27% 27% C 17% 11% 10% D 5% 5% Fail 2% 3% No Grade 6% 6% Average 3.3 3.2 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 10 ## Page 23 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving reasons for rulings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 51% 51% B 67% 27% 27% C 10% 10% D 4% 5% Fail 1% 2% No Grade 6% 5% Average 3.3 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 11 ## Page 24 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Issuing written findings of fact and law?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 19% 27% B 17% 11% 17% C 17% 8% 9% D 3% 3% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 67% 57% 42% Average 2.5 3 3.1 Letter Grade C+ B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 12 ## Page 25 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Willing to reconsider error in fact or law?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 27% 26% B 33% 19% 20% C 17% 11% 11% D 5% 5% Fail 3% 4% No Grade 33% 35% 34% Average 3 2.9 2.9 Letter Grade B B- B- Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 13 ## Page 26 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Having knowledge of relevant substantive law?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 47% 46% B 67% 30% 31% C 11% 11% D 17% 4% 4% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 6% 5% Average 2.8 3.2 3.2 Letter Grade B- B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 14 ## Page 27 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2f. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Having knowledge of rules of procedure and evidence?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 52% 52% B 67% 28% 29% C 9% 9% D 17% 3% 3% Fail 1% 1% No Grade 5% 5% Average 2.8 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B- B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 15 ## Page 28 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2g. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being able to identify and analyze relevant facts?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 51% 51% B 67% 28% 28% C 9% 10% D 17% 4% 4% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 6% 5% Average 2.8 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B- B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 16 ## Page 29 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2h. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Issuing consistent sentences when the circumstances are similar?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 38% 27% B 50% 23% 17% C 17% 7% 6% D 2% 2% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 28% 46% Average 3.2 3.3 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 17 ## Page 30 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2i. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Willing to make decision without regard to possible criticism?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 47% 47% B 50% 23% 23% C 17% 9% 8% D 3% 3% Fail 3% 2% No Grade 15% 17% Average 3.2 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 18 ## Page 31 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 2j. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Making decisions without fear of being appealed?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 49% 48% B 50% 23% 22% C 17% 7% 7% D 3% 3% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 17% 18% Average 3.2 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 19 ## Page 32 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 3a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Speaking clearly?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 70% 67% B 67% 21% 23% C 6% 6% D 1% 1% Fail 0% 1% No Grade 2% 2% Average 3.3 3.6 3.6 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 20 ## Page 33 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 3b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Making sure all participants understand the proceedings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 50% 66% 64% B 50% 21% 23% C 7% 7% D 2% 2% Fail 1% 1% No Grade 3% 3% Average 3.5 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 21 ## Page 34 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 3c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Using understandable language?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 69% 67% B 67% 21% 24% C 6% 6% D 1% 1% Fail 0% 0% No Grade 2% 2% Average 3.3 3.6 3.6 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 22 ## Page 35 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving proceedings a sense of dignity?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 50% 64% 63% B 50% 24% 23% C 7% 7% D 2% 3% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 2% 2% Average 3.5 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 23 ## Page 36 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating everyone involved politely?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 50% 61% 63% B 33% 20% 20% C 17% 9% 8% D 4% 4% Fail 3% 4% No Grade 2% 2% Average 3.3 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 24 ## Page 37 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Having empathy with the parties involved?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 50% 51% 51% B 17% 24% 24% C 33% 11% 11% D 5% 5% Fail 4% 3% No Grade 5% 6% Average 3.2 3.2 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 25 ## Page 38 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating participants with respect?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 50% 62% 62% B 33% 21% 21% C 17% 8% 8% D 4% 4% Fail 3% 3% No Grade 2% 2% Average 3.3 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 26 ## Page 39 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Presenting a neutral presence on the bench?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 57% 58% B 50% 23% 23% C 17% 9% 9% D 5% 4% Fail 4% 3% No Grade 2% 3% Average 3.2 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 27 ## Page 40 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4f. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being consistent in his/her behavior?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 58% 58% B 67% 22% 23% C 9% 9% D 3% 3% Fail 3% 3% No Grade 4% 4% Average 3.3 3.4 3.3 Letter Grade B B+ B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 28 ## Page 41 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4g. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Conducting his/her courtroom in a neutral manner?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 57% 59% B 67% 23% 23% C 9% 9% D 5% 4% Fail 3% 3% No Grade 3% 3% Average 3.3 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 29 ## Page 42 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4h. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving all participants an opportunity to be heard?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 61% 62% B 67% 24% 23% C 8% 7% D 2% 3% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 3% 3% Average 3.3 3.5 3.4 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 30 ## Page 43 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4i. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Consistently applying laws and rules?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 54% 53% B 67% 24% 24% C 10% 10% D 4% 4% Fail 2% 3% No Grade 6% 6% Average 3.3 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 31 ## Page 44 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4j. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Not engaging in ex parte communications?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 55% 56% B 33% 19% 17% C 33% 4% 4% D 2% 1% Fail 1% 1% No Grade 17% 20% 20% Average 2.8 3.5 3.6 Letter Grade B- B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 32 ## Page 45 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 4k. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating pro se parties fairly?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 51% 45% B 67% 18% 15% C 5% 4% D 2% 1% Fail 3% 2% No Grade 33% 22% 33% Average 3 3.4 3.5 Letter Grade B B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 33 ## Page 46 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Making tough decisions when necessary?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 45% 47% B 50% 26% 25% C 17% 9% 10% D 3% 3% Fail 1% 2% No Grade 17% 15% 14% Average 3 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 34 ## Page 47 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Using good judgment in application of relevant law and rules?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 48% 48% B 83% 28% 28% C 11% 11% D 5% 5% Fail 3% 3% No Grade 6% 5% Average 3.2 3.2 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 35 ## Page 48 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Doing the necessary "homework" and being prepared for his/her cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 47% 47% B 83% 27% 27% C 10% 11% D 4% 4% Fail 2% 3% No Grade 11% 9% Average 3.2 3.3 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 36 ## Page 49 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being willing to handle cases on the docket even when they are complicatedand time consuming?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 48% 47% B 67% 22% 22% C 8% 8% D 3% 3% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 17% 17% 17% Average 3.2 3.4 3.3 Letter Grade B B+ B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 37 ## Page 50 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 5e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Providing prompt access to the court in emergency matters?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 17% 38% 37% B 50% 16% 16% C 17% 5% 6% D 2% 2% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 17% 37% 37% Average 3 3.4 3.3 Letter Grade B B+ B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 38 ## Page 51 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 6. How biased do you think Judge Carlson is towards the defense or the prosecution? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 5 4% 3% 4 3% 3% 3 6% 6% 2 33% 13% 12% 1 17% 18% 16% 50% 49% 49% -1 4% 4% -2 2% 2% -3 1% 1% -4 1% 1% -5 0% 1% Average 0.8 0.8 0.7 noitucesorP drawoT esnefeD drawoT Ý 0 Neutral ß Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 39 ## Page 52 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 7. How lenient or harsh do you think the sentences handed down by Judge Carlson are? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 5 3% 2% 4 3% 2% 3 5% 5% 2 9% 9% 1 17% 13% 12% 83% 59% 58% -1 4% 5% -2 2% 2% -3 2% 2% -4 0% 1% -5 0% 1% Average 0.2 0.5 0.4 hsraH thgiL Ý 0 Appropriate ß Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 40 ## Page 53 Judge Max E. Carlson Attorney Survey 12. Do you recommend that Judge Carlson be retained in office or not be retained in office? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 Strongly Recommend 80% 73% 74% Retain in office Somewhat Recommend 20% 17% 16% Retain in office Somewhat Recommend Not 4% 4% Retain in office Strongly Recommend Not Retain in office 6% 6% Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 41 ## Page 54 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey Average Grades: Overall and by Section 3.3 Overall Average 3.3 3.3 3.3 Q1. Overall Demeanor 3.3 3.3 3.4 Q2. Overall Fairness 3.3 3.3 3.6 Q3. Overall 3.5 Communications 3.5 3.1 Q4. Overall Diligence 3.3 3.3 2.9 Q5. Overall Application 3.2 of Law 3.2 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 1 ## Page 55 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey Average Grades: Demeanor 3.3 Q1. Overall Demeanor 3.2 3.3 3.2 1a. Giving proceedings a 3.3 sense of dignity 3.4 3.4 1b. Treating participants 3.3 politely and with respect 3.4 3.1 1c. Conducting his/her courtroom in a neutral 3.2 manner 3.3 3.3 1d. Having a sense of compassion and human 3.1 understanding 3.2 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Max E. Carlson Average Grade All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 2 ## Page 56 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey Average Grades: Fairness 3.4 Q2. Overall Fairness 3.3 3.3 3.4 2a. Giving participants an 3.3 opportunity to be heard 3.4 3.2 2b. Treating those involved 3.2 with the case without bias 3.2 3.3 2c. Treating fairly people who 3.2 represent themselves 3.3 3.4 2d. Giving each side enough time to present his or her 3.3 case 3.4 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Average Grade Max E. Carlson All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 3 ## Page 57 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey Average Grades: Communications 3.6 Q3. Overall Communications 3.4 3.5 3.6 3a. Making sure all participants understand the 3.4 proceedings 3.4 3.5 3b. Using language that 3.4 everyone can understand 3.5 3.6 3c. Speaking clearly so 3.5 everyone can hear 3.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Max E. Carlson Average Grade All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 4 ## Page 58 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey Average Grades: Diligence 3.1 Q4. Overall Diligence 3.3 3.3 2.8 4a. Beginning court on time 3.2 3.2 3.4 4b. Maintaining appropriate 3.5 control over proceedings 3.5 3.1 4c. Setting reasonable 3.3 schedules for cases 3.3 3.3 4d. Being prepared for his or 3.3 her cases 3.4 3.1 4e. Managing court proceedings so that there is 3.3 little wasted time 3.3 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Max E. Carlson All County Judges Average Grade All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 5 ## Page 59 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey Average Grades: Application and Knowledge of Law 2.9 Q5. Overall App of Law 3.2 3.2 3.2 5a. Giving reasons for rulings 3.2 3.2 2.5 5b. Willing to make decision without regard to possible 3.2 outside pressure 3.2 3 5c. Being able to identify and 3.2 analyze relevant facts 3.2 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Max E. Carlson Average Grade All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 6 ## Page 60 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey Q6. Average: How biased do you think Judge Carlson is toward the defense or prosecution? Max E. Carlson -0.4 All County 0.2 Judges All Trial Judges 0.1 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 ç Defense Prosecution è Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 7 ## Page 61 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey Q7. Average: How lenient or how harsh are Judge Carlson's sentences? Max E. Carlson -1.2 All County 0 Judges All Trial Judges -0.1 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 ç Lenient Harsh è Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 8 ## Page 62 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey Retention Recommendation 80% 75% 74% 72% 70% 68% 67% 65% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 18% 16% 11%11% 11%11% 10%10% 10%10% 10%10% 9% 10% 7% 6% 6% 5% 5% 4% 0% Str o n gl y n ot r et ai n m e w h at n ot r et ai n U n d e ci d e d S o m e w h at r et ai n Str o n gl y r et ai n Str o n gl y n ot r et ai n m e w h at n ot r et ai n S o m e w h at r et ai n Str o n gl y r et ai n o o S S Judge Carlson Including Undecided Excluding Undecided All County Judges All Trial Judges Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 9 ## Page 63 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 1a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving proceedings a sense of dignity?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 45% 58% 60% B 39% 23% 23% C 9% 9% 8% D 3% 4% 3% Fail 3% 3% 3% No Grade 3% 3% Average 3.2 3.3 3.4 Letter Grade B B B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 1 ## Page 64 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 1b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating participants politely and with respect?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 58% 61% 63% B 33% 19% 19% C 3% 9% 8% D 6% 5% 4% Fail 4% 4% No Grade 3% 2% Average 3.4 3.3 3.4 Letter Grade B+ B B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 2 ## Page 65 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 1c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Conducting his/her courtroom in a neutral manner?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 52% 59% 61% B 30% 19% 18% C 3% 9% 8% D 9% 5% 4% Fail 6% 5% 5% No Grade 3% 3% Average 3.1 3.2 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 3 ## Page 66 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 1d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Having a sense of compassion and human understanding for those who appear before the judge?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 58% 54% 56% B 24% 20% 20% C 12% 10% 9% D 3% 5% 4% Fail 3% 7% 6% No Grade 4% 4% Average 3.3 3.1 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 4 ## Page 67 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 2a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving participants an opportunity to be heard?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 61% 60% 62% B 30% 21% 20% C 3% 7% 7% D 3% 4% 4% Fail 3% 5% 4% No Grade 4% 3% Average 3.4 3.3 3.4 Letter Grade B+ B B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 5 ## Page 68 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 2b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating those involved in the case without bias?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 55% 58% 60% B 30% 19% 18% C 3% 7% 7% D 9% 5% 4% Fail 3% 7% 7% No Grade 4% 4% Average 3.2 3.2 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 6 ## Page 69 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 2c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Treating fairly people who represent themselves?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 45% 47% 45% B 33% 15% 14% C 3% 6% 5% D 3% 4% 3% Fail 3% 6% 5% No Grade 12% 23% 29% Average 3.3 3.2 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 7 ## Page 70 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 2d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving each side enough time to present his or her case?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 56% 57% 59% B 31% 20% 19% C 8% 7% D 3% 3% 3% Fail 3% 4% 4% No Grade 6% 8% 7% Average 3.4 3.3 3.4 Letter Grade B+ B B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 8 ## Page 71 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 3a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Making sure all participants understand the proceedings, and what's going on in the courtroom?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 76% 63% 64% B 15% 20% 19% C 6% 8% 8% D 3% 4% 3% Fail 3% 3% No Grade 3% 3% Average 3.6 3.4 3.4 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 9 ## Page 72 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 3b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Using language that everyone can understand?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 70% 63% 64% B 21% 21% 21% C 3% 8% 8% D 6% 3% 3% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 3% 3% Average 3.5 3.4 3.5 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 10 ## Page 73 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 3c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Speaking clearly so everyone in the courtroom can hear what's being said?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 76% 66% 66% B 15% 20% 20% C 3% 7% 7% D 6% 2% 2% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 3% 3% Average 3.6 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 11 ## Page 74 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 4a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Beginning court on time?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 33% 50% 52% B 33% 25% 25% C 9% 11% 10% D 18% 4% 4% Fail 3% 5% 4% No Grade 3% 5% 5% Average 2.8 3.2 3.2 Letter Grade B- B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 12 ## Page 75 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 4b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 55% 63% 64% B 30% 22% 21% C 7% 7% D 9% 3% 3% Fail 2% 2% No Grade 6% 3% 3% Average 3.4 3.5 3.5 Letter Grade B+ B+ B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 13 ## Page 76 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 4c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Setting reasonable schedules for cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 39% 48% 51% B 30% 23% 21% C 6% 8% 8% D 3% 3% 3% Fail 6% 3% 3% No Grade 15% 15% 14% Average 3.1 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 14 ## Page 77 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 4d. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being prepared for his or her cases?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 48% 56% 58% B 36% 21% 19% C 9% 8% 7% D 6% 3% 3% Fail 3% 4% No Grade 9% 9% Average 3.3 3.3 3.4 Letter Grade B B B+ Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 15 ## Page 78 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 4e. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Managing court proceedings so that there is little wasted time?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 44% 53% 54% B 34% 25% 24% C 9% 10% 10% D 6% 4% 4% Fail 3% 4% 4% No Grade 3% 5% 5% Average 3.1 3.3 3.3 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 16 ## Page 79 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 5a. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Giving reasons for rulings?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 52% 52% 54% B 30% 20% 20% C 6% 9% 8% D 6% 4% 4% Fail 6% 6% 5% No Grade 9% 9% Average 3.2 3.2 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 17 ## Page 80 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 5b. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Willing to make decision without regard to possible outside pressure?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 27% 48% 50% B 33% 17% 16% C 12% 7% 7% D 6% 4% 3% Fail 15% 6% 6% No Grade 6% 18% 18% Average 2.5 3.2 3.2 Letter Grade C+ B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 18 ## Page 81 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 5c. How would you grade Judge Carlson on "Being able to identify and analyze relevant facts?" Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 A 45% 53% 55% B 24% 19% 18% C 12% 8% 7% D 3% 4% 4% Fail 9% 6% 6% No Grade 6% 9% 9% Average 3.0 3.2 3.2 Letter Grade B B B Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 19 ## Page 82 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 6. How biased do you think Judge Carlson is towards the defense or the prosecution? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 5 4% 3% 4 3% 2% 3 2% 2% 2 5% 3% 3% 1 5% 6% 6% 71% 68% 70% -1 4% 4% -2 10% 3% 3% -3 5% 3% 2% -4 1% 2% -5 5% 2% 2% Average -0.4 0.2 0.1 noitucesorP drawoT esnefeD drawoT Ý 0 Neutral ß Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 20 ## Page 83 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 7. How lenient or harsh do you think the sentences handed down by Judge Carlson are? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 5 5% 4% 4 3% 2% 3 5% 3% 3% 2 3% 3% 1 5% 4% 4% 45% 60% 62% -1 6% 7% -2 15% 6% 6% -3 20% 5% 5% -4 2% 2% -5 10% 3% 2% Average -1.2 0.0 -0.1 hsraH thgiL Ý 0 Appropriate ß Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 21 ## Page 84 Judge Max E. Carlson Non Attorney Survey 12. Do you recommend that Judge Carlson be retained in office or not be retained in office? Judge All County All Trial Carlson Judges 2004 Judges 2004 Strongly Recommend 75% 72% 74% Retain in office Somewhat Recommend 7% 11% 11% Retain in office Somewhat Recommend Not 6% 5% Retain in office Strongly Recommend Not Retain in office 18% 11% 11% Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 22 ## Page 85 MMeetthhooddoollooggyy Sample: The Colorado Judicial Department provided Talmey-Drake Research & Strategy, Inc. with all the names and addresses of people from its ICON data base who in the previous 12 months had likely been in each judge’s courtroom who was up for retention in November 2004. These names and addresses where then supplemented from the Colorado District Attorney’s database (Blackstone system) and the databases of jurors, court employees and sheriff’s security. The data was then combined and cleaned. Where there were more than 400 potential respondents, a random sample was drawn. Included in the data cleaning was the identification of potential respondents in the sample who had appeared in more than two judges’ courtrooms. Due to concerns about respondent fatigue, no more than two questionnaires were intended to be sent to any one respondent—though there were a few instances where one respondent did receive more than two questionnaires. Where a person had been in more than two judges’ courtrooms, the selection criteria for which judges he or she would be sent questionnaires was generally: first, for the judge in whose courtroom the potential respondent had been in most often, and two, the judge with the smallest sample of the judges in whose courtroom the potential respondent had been in. Survey: Starting in November 2004, each person in the sample database was mailed an initial questionnaire and an introductory letter with a postage-paid return envelope. Those who did not respond to the first questionnaire were then sent a sent a second questionnaire and letter, and in some cases reminder postcards. During this process, the sample was augmented for judges with a particularly low number of completed questionnaires. Questionnaire: The questionnaire used in the 2004 Judicial Performance Survey asked respondents to use a grade of A, B, C, D, or F (Fail) to assess the judge’s performance in five different areas. For attorney these areas were Case Management, Application and Knowledge of Law, Communications, Demeanor and Diligence, and for non-attorney respondents the five were Demeanor, Fairness, Communications, Diligence and Application of Law. These scores were then converted to a numerical value where A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D = 1 and Fail = 0. Copies of the questionnaires are included at the end of this report. Response: The response rate is calculated as the number of completed questionnaires divided by the number of eligible respondents who actually received a questionnaire. The following table shows the total number of questionnaires mailed, completed, non-responses & refusals, undeliverables and other responses. The table presents the overall response rate as well as the response rate by the different types of respondents. 1 ## Page 86 Refused/ Nonre- Unde- Response Attorney Respondents Total Sent Completed sponse livered Other Rate District Attorney 719 394 7 69 9 60.6% Attorney For Defendant 2,219 1,040 17 218 24 52.0% Guardian ad Litem 131 79 0 10 1 65.3% Unknown Attorney Type 5,378 2,170 56 751 88 46.9% Attorney Total 8,447 3,683 80 1,048 122 49.8% Refused/ Nonre- Unde- Response Non-Attny Respondents Total Sent Completed sponse livered Other Rate Law Enforcement 3,111 916 55 672 3 37.6% Employee 1,739 976 18 224 0 64.4% Defendant 12,171 1,620 148 2,439 27 16.6% Plaintiff 3,617 881 66 500 11 28.3% Juror 4,488 1,632 117 511 15 41.0% Victim 552 83 11 101 2 18.4% Other 1,650 222 25 373 8 17.4% Non-attorney Total 27,328 6,330 440 4,820 66 28.1% Total 35,775 10,013 520 5,868 188 33.5% A similar table showing the response count and cooperation rate for your survey is provided at the end of this methodology section. Results: The results of the Survey are in two main sections: Attorney Respondents and Non-attorney Respondents. Within each main section are three subsections: graphs displaying average grades for each section and question, the percentage distribution of grades, and respondent comments. Graphs: The graphs visually display the overall average numerical grades received for all grade questions, each section and each question compared to averages for all district or county judges, and all trial judges for which 2004 surveys were conducted. Questions relating to bias toward the defense or prosecution, sentencing and retention recommendation are also graphed. 2 ## Page 87 Percentage Distribution of Grades: This section shows the percentage of each grade received on each question plus the bias, sentencing and retention questions. An average grade point for each graded question is computed and shown in the results section. A letter grade is also assigned to each grade point according to the following scale. A = 4.00 B = 3.00 to 3.33 C = 2.00 to 2.33 D = 1.00 to 1.33 A— = 3.68 to 3.99 B— = 2.67 to 2.99 C— = 1.67 to 1.99 D— = 0.67 to 0.99 B+ = 3.34 to 3.66 C+ = 2.34 to 2.66 D+ = 1.34 to 1.66 Fail = 0.00 to 0.67 This section also includes two comparative columns of results: one comparative column shows the results for that question for all county or district judges (as appropriate) surveyed in 2004, along with a second comparative column showing the results for all trial judges in the 2004 survey. Comments: Each respondent was encouraged to comment on the judge’s performance. This section contains those comments. Sampling All sample surveys are subject to what is known as sampling error—the Error: extent to which the results of the sample survey may differ from what would be obtained if the entire population being surveyed had been interviewed. The size of the sampling error is almost entirely due to the number of people interviewed for the survey and the variance of responses. The table below shows the extent of sampling error (95%-confidence interval) for various sizes of random samples and sample percentage results. Sample Size 25 50 100 150 200 300 Percentages near 10% or 90% ± 11.8% ± 8.3% ± 5.9% ± 4.8% ± 4.2% ± 3.4% Percentages near 20% or 80% ± 15.7% ± 11.1% ± 7.8% ± 6.4% ± 5.5% ± 4.5% Percentages near 30% or 70% ± 18.0% ± 12.7% ± 9.0% ± 7.3% ± 6.4% ± 5.2% Percentages near 40% or 60% ± 19.2% ± 13.6% ± 9.6% ± 7.8% ± 6.8% ± 5.5% Percentages near 50% ± 19.6% ± 13.9% ± 9.8% ± 8.0% ± 6.9% ± 5.7% For example, suppose a reported percentage is 80% in a sample size of 150, then one could expect that 95% of the time that a random sample of the same size and collected the same way would include the true population percentage within the range of 80% plus or minus 6.4%. Averages such as grade points also have a 95% confidence interval, however it is not so easily displayed in a table as confidence intervals about a percentage. Suffice it to say that the confidence interval about a score generally increases with smaller sample size. 3 ## Page 88 Judge Max E. Carlson Responses by Type Total Other Non- Coop Role Type Sent Completes Refusals Undeliverable Responses Rate District Attorney 2 1 0 0 0 50.0% Attorney For Defendant 9 5 0 1 0 62.5% Guardian ad Litem Unknown Attorney Type 1 0 0 1 0 0.0% Sub Total: 12 6 0 2 0 60.0% Defendant 91 23 1 15 0 30.3% Plaintiff 15 4 0 4 0 36.4% Law Enforcement 5 3 0 0 0 60.0% Employee 5 3 0 2 0 100.0% Juror Victim 2 2 0 0 0 100.0% Other Sub Total: 118 35 1 21 0 36.1% Grand Total: 130 41 1 23 0 38.3% Judicial Performance Survey 2004 Page 1 ## Page 89 Commission on Judicial Performance 2003 Judicial Performance Attorney Questionnaire Evaluation of JUDGE _ Using a grade scale, where an “A” is excellent along with B, C, D or F for fail, please grade the judge on the following. (If you feel that you do not have experience with the judge in a specific area, or just don’t know, please circle the number corresponding to “Don’t Know/Not Applicable”—DK/NA). DK/ 1. Case Management: A B C D F NA a. Promptly making rulings during trial. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Beginning court on time. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Allotting appropriate amount of time for cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Keeping cases moving according to schedule. 4 3 2 1 0 9 e. [Civil only]1 Assisting parties to reach agreement. 4 3 2 1 0 9 f. Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 g. Promptly ruling on pre-trial motions. 4 3 2 1 0 9 h. Promptly issuing a decision on the case after trial. 4 3 2 1 0 9 i. Setting reasonable schedules for cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 2. Application and Knowledge of Law: a. Basing decisions on evidence and arguments. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Giving reasons for rulings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. [Civil only]1 Issuing written findings of fact and law. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Willing to reconsider error in fact or law. 4 3 2 1 0 9 e. Having knowledge of relevant substantive law. 4 3 2 1 0 9 f. Having knowledge of rules of procedure and evidence. 4 3 2 1 0 9 g. Being able to identify and analyze relevant facts. 4 3 2 1 0 9 h. [Criminal only]2 Issuing consistent sentences when the circumstances are similar. 4 3 2 1 0 9 i. Willing to make decision without regard to possible criticism. 4 3 2 1 0 9 j. Making decisions without fear of being appealed . 4 3 2 1 0 9 3. Communications: a. Speaking clearly. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Makings sure all participants understand the proceedings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Using understandable language. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. [District only] Providing written communications that are clear, thorough and well reasoned. 4 3 2 1 0 9 4. Demeanor: a. Giving proceedings a sense of dignity. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Treating everyone involved politely. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Having empathy with the parties involved. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Treating participants with respect. 4 3 2 1 0 9 e. Presenting a neutral presence on the bench. 4 3 2 1 0 9 f. Being consistent in his/her behavior. 4 3 2 1 0 9 g. Conducting his/her courtroom in a neutral manner. 4 3 2 1 0 9 h. Giving all participants an opportunity to be heard. 4 3 2 1 0 9 i. Consistently applying laws and rules. 4 3 2 1 0 9 j. Not engaging in ex parte communications. 4 3 2 1 0 9 k. Treating pro se parties fairly. 4 3 2 1 0 9 5. Diligence: a. Making tough decisions when necessary. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Using good judgment in application of relevant law and rules. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Doing the necessary “homework” and being prepared for his/her cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Being willing to handle cases on the docket even when they are complicated and time consuming. 4 3 2 1 0 9 e. Providing prompt access to the court in emergency matters. 4 3 2 1 0 9 [Continued on Back] 1 Please answer questions 1e & 2c only if you have observed the judge in a civil case. 2 Please answer question 2h only if you have observed the judge in a criminal case. ## Page 90 6. [Criminal cases only] 1 On the scale below, please indicate by circling the appropriate number how biased you think Judge _ is toward the defense or the prosecution. If you feel Judge _ is completely unbiased, circle “0.” Bias toward Completely Bias toward Defense Neutral Prosecution 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 7. [Criminal cases only]1 On the scale below, please indicate by circling the appropriate number how lenient or how harsh you think the sentences generally handed down by Judge _ are. If you feel Judge _ generally hands down appropriate sentences, circle “0.” Sentences Appropriate Sentences Too Light Sentences Too Harsh 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 8. If an associate were assigned to Judge _ in a case and asked you for advice, what would you say? _ _ _ _ 9. What would you say are Judge _’s strengths? _ _ _ _ 10. And what would you say are Judge _’s weaknesses? _ _ _ _ 11. Is there anything else that you would like to say about Judge _ ? _ _ _ 12. Keeping in mind your responses to each of the previous questions, how strongly do you recommend that Judge _ be retained in office, or not retained in office? Strongly recommend he be retained in office. 5 Somewhat recommend he be retained in office. 4 Undecided or don’t know enough to make recommendation. 3 Somewhat recommend he not be retained in office. 2 Strongly recommend he not be retained in office. 1 And why do you think that way about retaining or not retaining Judge _ ? _ _ _ _ Thank you for your time in completing this questionnaire. Please place it in the self-addressed, postage paid enveloped provided, and place it in the mail. Your participation in this survey is very much appreciated. 1 Please answer questions 6 & 7 only if you have observed the judge in a criminal case. ## Page 91 Commission on Judicial Performance 2003 Judicial Performance Questionnaire Evaluation of JUDGE _ Using a grade scale, where an “A” is excellent along with B, C, D or F for fail, please grade the judge on the following. (If you feel that you do not have experience with the judge in a specific area, or just don’t know, please circle the number corresponding to “Don’t Know/Not Applicable”—DK/NA). DK/ 1. Demeanor: A B C D F NA a. Giving court proceedings a sense of dignity. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Treating participants in the case politely and with respect. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Conducting his/her courtroom in a neutral manner. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Having a sense of compassion and human understanding for those who appear before him/her. 4 3 2 1 0 9 2. Fairness: a. Giving participants an opportunity to be heard. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Treating those involved in the case without bias. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Treating fairly people who represent themselves. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Giving each side enough time to present his or her case. 4 3 2 1 0 9 3. Communications: a. Makings sure participants understand the proceedings, and what’s going on in the courtroom. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Using language that everyone can understand. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Speaking clearly so everyone in the courtroom can hear what’s being said. 4 3 2 1 0 9 4. Diligence: a. Beginning court on time. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Setting reasonable schedules for cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 d. Being prepared for his/her cases. 4 3 2 1 0 9 e. Managing court proceedings so that there is little wasted time. 4 3 2 1 0 9 5. Application of Law: a. Giving reasons for rulings. 4 3 2 1 0 9 b. Willing to make decision without regard to possible outside pressure. 4 3 2 1 0 9 c. Being able to identify and analyze relevant facts. 4 3 2 1 0 9 6. [If you were in Judge _’s courtroom during a criminal case or cases please answer this question, otherwise skip to the next question.] On the scale below, please indicate by circling the appropriate number how biased you think Judge _ is toward the defense or the prosecution. If you feel Judge _ is completely unbiased, circle “0.” Bias toward Completely Bias toward Defense Neutral Prosecution 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 Continued on Other Side ## Page 92 7. [If you were in Judge _ ’s courtroom during a criminal case or cases please answer this question, otherwise skip to the next question.] On the scale below, please indicate by circling the appropriate number how lenient or how harsh you think the sentences generally handed down by Judge _ are. If you feel Judge _ generally hands down appropriate sentences, circle “0.” Sentences Appropriate Sentences Too Light Sentences Too Harsh 5 4 3 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 8. If a friend of yours was scheduled to appear before Judge _ as a party in either a civil or criminal case and asked you for advice, what would you tell your friend about Judge _ ? _ _ _ _ 9. What would you say are Judge _’s strengths? _ _ _ _ 10. And what would you say are Judge _’s weaknesses? _ _ _ _ 11. Is there anything else that you would like to say about Judge _? _ _ _ _ 12. Keeping in mind your responses to each of the previous questions, how strongly do you recommend that Judge _ be retained in office, or not retained in office? Strongly recommend he be retained in office. 5 Somewhat recommend he be retained in office. 4 Undecided or don’t know enough to make recommendation. 3 Somewhat recommend he not be retained in office. 2 Strongly recommend he not be retained in office. 1 And why do you think that way about retaining or not retaining Judge _? _ _ _ _ Thank you for your time in completing this questionnaire. Please place it in the self-addressed, postage paid enveloped provided, and place it in the mail. Your participation in this survey is very much appreciated.

Score cards render where the PDF extractor found numeric fields (partial is shown with “—” for missing tiles). “Read full survey text” surfaces the complete report transcription for every survey on file. Source PDFs on OJPE are always linked above for fidelity. Coverage note on Sources.

Sources

• 2008 evaluation on OJPE · scraped Apr 17, 2026
• 2004 evaluation on OJPE · scraped Apr 17, 2026
• 2000 evaluation on OJPE · scraped Apr 17, 2026
• 1996 evaluation on OJPE · scraped Apr 17, 2026
• 1992 evaluation on OJPE · scraped Apr 17, 2026