Anita M. Schutte

Evaluation history

• 2024 retention cycle

  Trial Court · Denver · Denver

  Commission vote: 9 for · 0 against

  Meets Standards
  VotersRetained· 78.8% yes

  201,313 yes · 54,238 no50% needed to retain
  Retention Year: 2024Recommendation: Meets Performance Standards Reports: 2024 Retention Survey Report (PDF) 2023 Interim Survey Report (PDF) Need an accessible PDF Document Version? Please click on the link below and email our staff Contact Us The Second Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance unanimously agrees by a vote of 9–0, with one Commissioner vacancy, that Judge Anita M. Schutte MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS. The Colorado statutory judicial performance criteria are integrity, legal knowledge, communication skills, judicial temperament, administrative performance, and service to the legal profession and the public. Judge Schutte currently presides over domestic relations matters in the Denver District Court. Judge Schutte meets all aspects of the performance criteria on which she is evaluated. Judge Schutte’s written decisions are clear, thorough, and well-reasoned. Her notable strengths, observed by the Commission and described in survey responses, include being an attentive and patient listener to the parties and witnesses that appear before her, having an excellent judicial demeanor and conducting herself in a fair and impartial manner. The Commission, based on its observation and analysis of survey responses, did not identify any evaluation category in which Judge Schutte displayed a notable weakness as to the performance criteria. Judge Schutte exceeded the Court’s productivity benchmark for domestic relations courtrooms, completing approximately 98% of cases within 18 months. The Commission met with the Chief Judge of Denver District Court to discuss challenges facing the court system. The Commission conducted a personal interview with Judge Schutte and observed her during court proceedings. It also reviewed opinions she authored, comments received from interested parties during the evaluation, recordings from her courtroom, case management data, and judicial performance survey responses from attorneys and non-attorneys who interacted with her. The surveys reflected personal opinions regarding Judge Schutte in the categories of case management, application and knowledge of the law, communications, diligence, demeanor, and fairness. A total of 14 attorneys and 23 non-attorneys responded to the judicial performance surveys expressing their opinion of Judge Schutte. The overall information and data reviewed supports the Commission’s recommendation that Judge Schutte be retained.

Surveys & reports

• 2024 cycle
  • 2023 Interim Survey Report(PDF on OJPE)
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    ## Page 1 The Honorable Judge Anita M. Schutte 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report District C ourt Conducted by: 511 Congress Street, Suite 801 Portland, ME 04101 www.marketdecisions.com ## Page 2 Contents Summary of Results. . 3 Overall Score. . 3 Performance Scores . . 4 Individual Category Scores . . 5 Summary of Responses . . 6 Detailed Report . . 7 Case Management . . 7 Application and Knowledge of Law . . 8 Communications. . 9 Demeanor . .10 Diligence . .11 Fairness . .12 Survey of Appellate Judges . .13 Appendix 1. Survey Methods – Attorney and Non-attorney . .14 Methodology and How to Read Results . .14 Appendix 2. Survey Methodology - Appellate Judges. .17 Methodology and How to Read Results . .17 Appendix 3: Judge Response Counts by Type of Respondent . .18 i ## Page 3 Summary of Results For Judge Schutte, 14 individuals completed surveys with at least a single rating question answered. This report reflects these 14 responses. Respondents rated judges on various questions using an A to F scale, in which the grades were then converted to the following numerical scores: A= 4, B=3, C=2, D=1 and Fail=0. An average score of 4.0 is the highest possible score and a 0.0 is the lowest possible score. Overall Score 4 3.6 3.4 3 2 1 0 Judge Schutte All District Judges Judge Schutte All District Judges Overall Grade 3.6 3.4 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 3 ## Page 4 Performance Scores 100% 100% 86% 81% 82% 80% 60% 40% 20% 14% 14% 14% 5% 5% 0% Judge Schutte All District Judges Judge Schutte All District Judges Attorneys Non-Attorneys Yes, meets performance standards No, does not meet performance standards No opinion Attorneys Non-Attorneys All All Judge Judge District District Schutte Schutte Judges Judges Yes, meets performance 100% 81% 86% 82% standards No, does not meet 0% 14% 14% 14% performance standards No opinion 0% 5% 0% 5% Note: All percentages in this report are rounded to the nearest percentage point. 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 4 ## Page 5 Individual Category Scores 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 3.5 Case Management 3.4 3.4 Application and Knowledge of Law 3.3 3.8 Communications 3.5 3.7 Diligence 3.4 3.7 Demeanor 3.4 3.6 Fairness 3.3 Judge Schutte All District Judges Judge All District Schutte Judges Case Management 3.5 3.4 Application and Knowledge 3.4 3.3 of Law Communications 3.8 3.5 Diligence 3.7 3.4 Demeanor 3.7 3.4 Fairness 3.6 3.3 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 5 ## Page 6 Summary of Responses Percent Number Response with with Group Responses Rate Sufficient Sufficient Knowledge K nowledge Attorneys 35 33% 14% 5 Non-Attorneys 25 - - 9 *Some non-attorney evaluations are self-selected, making calculating a response rate impossible. The non-attorney group includes staff, jurors, litigants, and witnesses including law enforcement officers. It also includes responses provided through the open Citizen feedback survey. Judge Schutte received 0 response(s) via the Citizen Feedback survey. Those responses are included with non- attorney results wherever applicable. However, as self-selected evaluations they cannot be included in response rates. 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 6 ## Page 7 Detailed R eport Case Management 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Judge Schutte Overall 3.5 District Judges Overall 3.4 Judge Schutte Attorneys 4.0 Judge Schutte Non-Attorneys 3.2 Judge District Judge Judge Number of Schutte Judges Schutte Schutte Non- Responses Overall Overall Attorneys Attorneys Promptly issuing a decision on 3.7 3.4 4.0 3.5 9 the case after trial Maintaining appropriate control 3.7 3.4 4.0 3.6 10 over proceedings Promptly ruling on pre-trial 3.2 3.3 4.0 2.8 9 motions Setting reasonable schedules for 3.5 3.3 4.0 3.3 10 cases 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 7 ## Page 8 Application and Knowledge of Law 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Judge Schutte Overall 3.4 District Judges Overall 3.3 Judge Schutte Attorneys 4.0 Judge Schutte Non-Attorneys 3.3 Judge District Judge Judge Number of Schutte Judges Schutte Schutte Non- Responses Overall Overall Attorneys Attorneys Being able to identify and analyze 3.6 3.3 4.0 3.4 9 relevant facts Basing decisions on evidence 4.0 3.2 4.0 N/A 2 and arguments Issuing consistent sentences when the circumstances are 4.0 3.3 4.0 N/A 2 similar Consistently applying laws and 4.0 3.2 4.0 N/A 2 rules Giving reasons for rulings 3.4 3.3 N/A 3.4 7 Willing to make decisions without regard to possible outside 3.0 3.4 N/A 3.0 7 pressure 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 8 ## Page 9 Communications 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Judge Schutte Overall 3.8 District Judges Overall 3.5 Judge Schutte Attorneys 3.8 Judge Schutte Non-Attorneys 3.8 Judge District Judge Judge Number of Schutte Judges Schutte Schutte Non- Responses Overall Overall Attorneys Attorneys Making sure all participants 3.6 3.5 3.5 3.6 9 understand the proceedings Providing written communications that are clear, 4.0 3.3 4 N/A 2 thorough and well-reasoned Using language that everyone 3.7 3.6 N/A 3.7 7 can understand Speaking clearly so everyone in the courtroom can hear what’s 4.0 3.7 N/A 4.0 7 being said 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 9 ## Page 10 Demeanor 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Judge Schutte Score 3.7 District Judges Overall 3.4 Judge Schutte Attorneys 4.0 Judge Schutte Non-Attorneys 3.6 District Judge Judge Judge Number of Judges Schutte Schutte Non- Schutte Score Responses Overall Attorneys Attorneys Giving proceedings a sense of 3.9 3.5 4.0 3.9 9 dignity Treating participants with 3.6 3.4 4.0 3.4 9 respect Having a sense of compassion and human understanding for 3.4 3.4 N/A 3.4 7 those who appear before him/her 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 10 ## Page 11 Diligence 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Judge Schutte Score 3.7 District Judges Overall 3.4 Judge Schutte Attorneys 4.0 Judge Schutte Non-Attorneys 3.7 District Judge Judge Judge Number of Judges Schutte Schutte Non- Schutte Score Responses Overall Attorneys Attorneys Using good judgment in application of relevant law and 4.0 3.2 4.0 N/A 2 rules Being willing to handle cases on the docket even when they are 4.0 3.4 4.0 N/A 2 complicated and time consuming Doing the necessary “homework” 4.0 3.3 4.0 N/A 2 and being prepared for cases Beginning court on time. 4.0 3.6 N/A 4.0 7 Maintaining appropriate control 3.9 3.6 N/A 3.9 7 over proceedings Setting reasonable schedules for 3.3 3.4 N/A 3.3 7 cases Being prepared for cases. 3.6 3.5 N/A 3.6 7 Managing court proceedings so 3.6 3.4 N/A 3.6 7 that there is little wasted time 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 11 ## Page 12 Fairness 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Judge Schutte Score 3.6 District Judges Overall 3.3 Judge Schutte Attorneys 4.0 Judge Schutte Non-Attorneys 3.5 Judge Schutte District Judge Schutte Judge Schutte Number of Score Judges Overall Attorneys Non-Attorneys Responses Giving participants an 3.4 3.4 N/A 3.4 7 opportunity to be heard Treating those involved 3.4 3.3 N/A 3.4 7 in the case without bias Treating fairly people who represent 3.4 3.4 N/A 3.4 7 themselves Giving each side enough time to present his or her 3.6 3.4 N/A 3.6 7 case Conducting their courtroom in a neutral 3.6 3.4 4.0 3.4 9 manner. Being fair and impartial 4.0 3.3 4.0 N/A 2 to both sides. 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 12 ## Page 13 Survey of Appellate Judges For Judge Schutte 3 appellate judges agreed they had worked with Judge Schutte enough to evaluate their performance. 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Judge Schutte Score 4.0 District Judges Overall 3.4 Judge Schutte District Judges Number of Score Overall Responses Overall performance as a judge 4.0 3.4 3 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 13 ## Page 14 Appendix 1. Survey M ethods – A ttorney an d Non- attorney Methodology and How to Read Results For Judge Schutte, 14 individuals completed surveys with at least a single rating question answered. This report reflects these 14 responses. The survey results are divided into eight sections: Case Management, Application and Knowledge of Law, Communications, Demeanor, Diligence, Fairness, Strengths, and Weaknesses. a. Response rates Attorneys During the administration, 76,755 survey invitations were sent to 10,611 attorneys inviting them to evaluate judges and justices receiving reports in 2023. On average, each attorney was asked to evaluate 7 judges. In total, 7,151 surveys were completed with 10,495 more responses where the attorney indicated they did not have enough experience with the judge to be comfortable evaluating them. The response rate for the survey was 9% and the survey completion rate (the number of those familiar indicating they did not have sufficient familiarity to evaluate the judge) was 23%. In addition to emailed invitations, attorneys could self-select the judges to evaluate via a public link. Non-attorneys The 2023 administration expanded on contacting non-attorneys electronically. More non-attorney email addresses became available due to administrative changes in the courts. In total 93,819 non-attorneys were invited via email. Some non-attorney groups could self-select which judges they would like to evaluate. Court staff members were emailed a link that allowed them to self-select the judges wished to evaluate in their county or district. Jurors, in addition to email, could similarly self-select via publicly posted links. The public was also allowed to self-select via a separate public link. These methods allowed us to gather more data than previous cycles, however the inclusion of self-selected evaluations makes it impossible to calculate a response rate. In total, 5,463 surveys were completed with 2,466 more responses where the respondent indicated they did not have enough experience with the judge to be comfortable providing an evaluation. b. Methodology The 2023 attorney survey was conducted in 4 cycles online beginning on July 21st, 2022. Attorneys with appearances in front of judges in each quarter were sent a sent a series of email invitations. Invitations were emailed to attorneys with appearances during the first and second quarters of 2022 on July 21st, 2022. Reminders were sent on August 3rd and August 10th, 2 022. This process was repeated among attorneys with appearances in the third quarter of 2022 with email invitations sent on October 20th, 2022 and reminders was sent on November 3rd, 2 022 and November 9th, 2 022. The final data collection took place in January 2023. Invitations were emailed to attorneys with appearances during the 4th quarter of 2022 on January 14th, 2 023. Reminders were sent on January 23rd and January 28th, 2023. Invitations were sent out on request throughout the data collection process. In addition to emailed invitation attorneys could self-select via a public link throughout the entire data collection period. Data was downloaded for analysis on February 3rd, 2023. 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 14 ## Page 15 Data collection for non-attorneys began on January 1st, 2022 and ran through the response deadline of February 3rd, 2023. Survey invitations were sent via email to most non-attorneys in quarterly batches mirroring the process used for attorneys. Court staff members were also invited via email but using a different process. To help reduce the administrative burden, the way that court staff were invited was changed for this cycle. Rather than be invited to evaluate specific judges, staff are now brought to a screen showing a list of all judges in their district or county and allowed to choose which to evaluate. Jurors, in addition to email, were allowed to similarly self-select via publicly posted links. The general public was also allowed to self-select via a separate public link. This survey was open for the entire data collection period and data was downloaded for analysis on February 3rd, 2023. During this period 1,296 valid responses were received. The survey remained open and any responses received after February 3rd or f or judges not receiving an evaluation in 2023 were held over for the 2024 evaluation cycle. Details on the responses from each group are detailed in the table below. Table 1: Non-Attorney completes by invitation method Invitation Method Invites Sent Completes Response Rate Non-attorney email 93,819 5,985 6% Court Staff Email Invite (Self- 3,427 1,864 N/A select) Citizen Feedback Unknown 113 N/A Juror Survey Unknown 1,296 N/A c. Questions In the core of the survey, attorneys evaluated district and county judges on 17 aspects of judicial performance and appellate judges on 12 aspects of judicial performance using a grade scale of A, B, C, D, or F. These aspects were grouped by topic into different categories, five for district and county judges and two for appellate judges. The district and county categories were: Case Management, Application and Knowledge of Law, Communications, Demeanor, Diligence and fairness. Questions regarding appellate judges were divided into two categories, one for general questions and one specific to their writing (only asked of those who indicated they had experience with the judge or justice’s written opinions). In a final question, respondents were asked if they thought whether the judge met judicial performance standards The question wording for the core of the survey was carried over from the 2022 administration. The questions were originally developed in 1998 to meet the criteria outlined in statute 13-5.5-101 et seq. Non-attorney respondents evaluated judges on 23 aspects of judicial performance using the same grade scale of A, B, C, D, or Fail. In a final question, respondents were asked if they thought whether the judge met judicial performance standards. The overall structure of the survey was similar to the attorney survey, but the individual rating questions were tailored to aspects that could be rated by those without specific legal experience. d. Analysis and Reporting Letter grades were converted to a numerical score where A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D = 1 and Fail = 0 for analysis. The results include an overall grade, a grade for each category, as well as a grade for each question. The overall score is calculated by averaging the responses to all questions answered by the attorneys. This score will have the same numerical range as the individual questions from zero to four. 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 15 ## Page 16 Each category score is calculated by averaging the responses to all questions answered by the attorney within each category. This score will have the same zero to four numerical range as the individual questions. Similarly, an average score is calculated for each individual question with the exception of the final question on meeting performance standards. The overall average and category scores will be reported for each judge along with the average scores for the judge’s peers. The average score (with the exception noted above) will also be reported for each question along with the peer group score. In addition, the report will include the distribution of responses for each question, i.e., the percentage of attorneys that assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, and F. The distribution of responses is also reported for the question on retention. e. Comments At the end of each group of questions respondents had the option of leaving comments about the judge’s performance in that area. By statute, these comments are confidential and only provided to the judge and the District Commission on Judicial Performance. They are not released to the public when the rest of the report is released. 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 16 ## Page 17 Appendix 2. Survey M ethodology - A ppellate Ju dges Methodology and How to Read Results a. Response rates Invitations were sent via email to all 37 Supreme Court justices and Court of Appeals judges. Of these, 3 completed the survey and felt they had sufficient knowledge of Judge Schutte to evaluate their performance. b. Methodology Appellate judges were surveyed to evaluate the performance of district judges standing for retention. This evaluation of district judges was conducted via an online survey hosted in the Voxco survey software. An email invitation was sent on January 11th, 2023. Reminders were sent on January 19th a nd January 25th 2 023. c. Questions Due to the large number of judges being evaluated, the district judge evaluation survey consisted of a single question pertaining to each judge. Appellate judges and justices were asked to evaluate the district judge’s overall performance as a judge on a grade scale of A-F with A being “Excellent” and F being “Fail”. In the survey, the district judges being evaluated were grouped by district with the districts presented in random order to reduce bias. d. Analysis and Reporting Letter grades were then converted to a numerical score where A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D = 1 and Fail = 0 for analysis. The overall score is calculated by averaging the responses to all questions answered. This score will have the same numerical range as the individual questions from zero to four. The overall average will be reported for each judge along with the average scores for the judge’s peers. In addition, the report will include the distribution of responses for each question. That is, the percentage of respondents that assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, and F. e. Comments Respondents were given the option to leave supporting comments in a box next to where they graded each judge. By statute, these comments are confidential and only provided to the judge and the District Commission on Judicial Performance. They are not released to the public when the rest of the report is released. 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 17 ## Page 18 Appendix 3: Judge Response Counts by Type of Respondent Number of Cooperation Respondent Type Total Sent Completes* Responses Rate Attorney 105 35 5 14% Staff - 2 2 - Others 311 23 7 30% Juror - 0 0 - Citizen Feedback - 0 0 Total Non-Attorneys - 25 9 - Total Respondents - 60 14 - *Completed surveys include respondents who said that they have sufficient experience to evaluate the judge. 2023 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 18
  • 2024 Retention Survey Report(PDF on OJPE)
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    ## Page 1 The Honorable Judge An ita M. Schutte 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report District Court Conducted by: 511 Congress Street, Suite 801 Portland, ME 04101 www.marketdecisions.com ## Page 2 Contents Summary of Results. . 3 Overall Score. . 4 Performance Scores. . 5 Individual Category Scores . . 6 Detailed Report . . 7 Case Management . . 7 Application and Knowledge of Law . . 8 Communications. . 9 Demeanor. . 10 Diligence. . 11 Fairness. . 12 Survey of Appellate Judges. . 13 Appendix 1. Survey Methods – Attorney and Non-attorney . . 14 Methodology and How to Read Results . . 14 Appendix 2. Survey Methodology - District Judge Survey by Appellate Judges. . 20 Methodology and How to Read Results . . 20 i ## Page 3 Summary of Results For Judge Schutte, 37 individuals completed surveys with at least a single rating question answered. This report reflects these 37 responses. Invitation Number of Respondent Type Sent Responses Attorney email invite 574 14 Attorney Survey Website N/A 0 Court Attorney (self-select) 58 0 Total Attorneys - 14 Non-attorney email Invite 1575 21 Court Staff Email Invite (Self-select) 2497 2 Citizen Feedback - 0 Juror Survey - 0 Total Non-Attorneys - 23 Total N/A 37 Respondents were asked to rate the judges on these aspects of judicial performance using the categories of Never or Almost Never, Once in a While, Some of the Time, Frequently, and Every or Almost Every Time. These categories were converted into a numeric scale from 0 to 4: Never or Almost Never – 0; Once in a While – 1; Some of the Time – 2; Frequently – 3; Every or Almost Every Time – 4. For the following questions, the scales were reversed because these are behaviors judges should not demonstrate: Never or Almost Never – 4; Once in a While – 3; Some of the Time – 2; Frequently – 1; Every or Almost Every Time – 0. Fails to provide a proper legal basis for a decision When issuing a ruling, the judge fails to provide an explanation for the decision Overreacts to an incident(s) in the courtroom Addresses individuals (e.g. attorneys, court staff, litigants, public witnesses) disrespectfully in the courtroom. Appears to decide the outcome of the case before all evidence Unnecessarily restricts a party’s presentation 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 3 ## Page 4 Overall Score 4.0 3.3 3.0 2.0 1.0 0.0 Judge Schutte Overall Judge Schutte Number of Responses Overall Overall Grade 3.3 37 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 4 ## Page 5 Performance Scores Percentage Number of Responses Non- Non- Attorneys Attorneys Attorneys Attorneys Yes, meets performance 92% 73% 12 16 standards No, does not meet performance 8% 18% 1 4 standards No opinion 0% 9% 0 2 Note: All percentages in this report are rounded to the nearest percentage point. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 5 ## Page 6 Individual Category Scores Judge Schutte Score 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Case Management 3.2 Application and Knowledge of Law 3.2 Communications 3.4 Diligence 3.2 Demeanor 3.3 Fairness 3.2 Judge Schutte Score Judge Number of Schutte Responses Score Case Management 3.2 37 Application and Knowledge of Law 3.2 37 Communications 3.4 35 Diligence 3.2 35 Demeanor 3.3 34 Fairness 3.2 34 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 6 ## Page 7 Detailed Report Case Management 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Overall 3.2 Attorneys 3.6 Non-Attorneys 3.0 Non- Number of Overall Attorneys Attorneys Responses Promptly issues a decision on the case after 3.1 3.2 3.1 35 trial. Maintains appropriate control over proceedings. 3.5 3.7 3.4 34 Promptly rules on pre-trial motions. 3.1 3.8 2.7 30 Sets reasonable schedules for cases. 3.2 3.5 3.0 37 Provides an alternative to in-person hearings 3.3 3.8 3.1 32 when appropriate. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 7 ## Page 8 Application and Knowledge of Law 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Overall 3.2 Attorneys 3.5 Non-Attorneys 3.0 Non- Number of Overall Attorneys Attorneys Responses Is able to identify and analyze relevant facts. 3.2 3.4 3.1 37 Bases decisions on evidence and arguments. 3.5 3.5 N/A 13 Issues consistent decisions when the 3.8 3.8 N/A 11 circumstances are similar. Rulings cite the applicable substantive law. 3.6 3.6 N/A 14 Consistently applies laws and rules. 3.5 3.5 N/A 13 Fails to provide a proper legal basis for a 3.1 3.1 N/A 14 decision. * Gives reasons for rulings. 3.0 N/A 3.0 21 Willing to make decisions without regard to 2.9 N/A 2.9 20 possible outside pressure. * Since this represents negative behavior, the score was reversed. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 8 ## Page 9 Communications 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Overall 3.4 Attorneys 3.6 Non-Attorneys 3.2 Non- Number of Overall Attorneys Attorneys Responses Makes sure all participants understand the 3.4 3.8 3.1 34 proceedings. When issuing a ruling, the judge fails to provide 3.0 3.0 N/A 13 an explanation for the decision. * Provides written communications that are clear, 3.6 3.6 N/A 13 thorough, and well- reasoned. Listens carefully during court proceedings. 3.8 3.8 N/A 14 Uses language that everyone can understand. 3.1 N/A 3.1 19 Speaks clearly so everyone in the courtroom 3.7 N/A 3.7 19 can understand what's being said. Gives reasons for a ruling when needed. 2.9 N/A 2.9 21 * Since this represents negative behavior, the score was reversed. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 9 ## Page 10 Demeanor 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Overall 3.3 Attorneys 3.5 Non-Attorneys 3.1 Non- Number of Overall Attorneys Attorneys Responses Gives proceedings a sense of dignity. 3.3 3.8 2.9 33 Treats participants with respect. 3.5 3.8 3.2 33 Overreacts to an incident(s) in the courtroom. * 3.7 3.7 N/A 12 Addresses individuals (e.g. attorneys, court staff, litigants, public witnesses) disrespectfully 2.6 2.6 N/A 14 in the courtroom. * Maintains a professional demeanor in the 3.9 3.9 N/A 14 courtroom. Has a sense of compassion and human 3.2 N/A 3.2 18 understanding for those who appear in court. * Since this represents negative behavior, the score was reversed. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 10 ## Page 11 Diligence 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Overall 3.2 Attorneys 3.3 Non-Attorneys 3.2 Non- Number of Overall Attorneys Attorneys Responses Uses good judgment in application of relevant 3.4 3.4 N/A 14 law and rules. Is willing to handle cases on the docket even when they are complicated and time 3.5 3.5 N/A 12 consuming. Does the necessary “homework” and is 3.1 3.1 N/A 14 prepared for cases. Begins court on time. 3.4 N/A 3.4 18 Maintains appropriate control over proceedings. 3.2 N/A 3.2 19 Sets reasonable schedules for cases. 3.0 N/A 3.0 20 Is prepared for cases 3.1 N/A 3.1 21 Manages court proceedings so there is little 3.0 N/A 3.0 20 wasted time. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 11 ## Page 12 Fairness 0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 Overall 3.2 Attorneys 3.5 Non-Attorneys 3.0 Non- Number of Overall Attorneys Attorneys Responses Gives participants an opportunity to be heard. 3.1 N/A 3.1 20 Treats those involved in the case without bias. 3.0 N/A 3.0 20 Treats people fairly who represent themselves. 2.5 N/A 2.5 15 Gives each side enough time to present their 3.1 N/A 3.1 18 case. Conducts their courtroom in a neutral manner. 3.8 3.8 N/A 13 Is fair and impartial to both sides. 3.6 3.6 N/A 13 Appears to decide the outcome of the case 3.7 3.7 N/A 12 before all evidence. * Unnecessarily restricts a party's presentation. * 3.1 3.1 N/A 12 * Since this represents negative behavior, the score was reversed. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 12 ## Page 13 Survey of Appellate Judges For Judge Schutte 9 appellate judges agreed they had worked with Judge Schutte enough to evaluate their performance. 4.0 3.8 3.0 2.0 1.0 0.0 Judge Schutte Overall Judge Schutte Overall Number of Responses Overall performance as a judge 3.8 9 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 13 ## Page 14 Appendix 1. Survey Methods – At torney and No n- attorney Methodology and How to Read Results For Judge Schutte, 37 individuals completed surveys with at least a single rating question answered. This report reflects these 37 responses. The survey results are divided into eight sections: Case Management, Application and Knowledge of Law, Communications, Demeanor, Diligence, Fairness, Strengths, and Weaknesses. A. Response Rates Attorneys The response rate is the number of attorneys that answered at least one survey question divided by the total number of attorneys that were asked to evaluate judges. During the 2024 cycle, 11,083 attorneys were sampled and asked to evaluate 1 or more judges. Among these attorneys, 4,251 responded. The attorney response rate is 38%. The judge completion rate is the total number of attorney/judge pairs (each instance an attorney was asked to evaluate an individual judge with an answer to one or more questions regarding this specific judge) divided by the total number of attorney/judge pairs included in the cycle. During the cycle there was a total of 119,479 pairs with 16,041 responses, for a judge completion rate of 13%. This includes 10,359 responses where the attorneys lacked sufficient knowledge to evaluate the judge. The evaluation completion rate is the number of evaluations with response to the aspects of judicial performance questions (5,682) divided by the total number of responses, including those where the attorney indicated she lacked sufficient knowledge to evaluate the judge (16,041). The evaluation completion rate is 35%. During the course of this cycle, most attorneys were asked to participate in more than one quarterly data collection administration to evaluate different judges, with a maximum of three administrations during the cycle. In addition, attorneys were allowed to evaluate judges who were not included in their invitations. A total of 637 surveys were completed among those attorneys selecting other judges to evaluate. These surveys were not factored in the survey response or completion rates but were factored into the percentage and counts of evaluations with answers to the aspects of judicial performance questions. Non-attorneys Court staff select judges to evaluate. Because they selected judges themselves, the response rate cannot be calculated. Similarly, we don’t know the sample size of the juror survey because the survey was administrated by the court. We also don’t know the sample size of the citizens feedback survey because citizens self select to participate. Thus, the response rate of these groups cannot be calculated. During the 2024 cycle, 117,355 non-attorneys (not including court staff, jurors, and citizens) were sampled and asked to evaluate one or more judges. Among these non-attorneys, 6,614 responded. The non-attorney response rate is 6%. Note that the judge completion rate is equal to response rate among non-attorneys. The evaluation completion rate is the number of evaluations with responses to the aspects of judicial performance questions, 3,794, divided by the total number of responses, including those where the attorney indicated they lacked sufficient knowledge to evaluate the judge (6,641). The evaluation completion rate is 57%. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 14 ## Page 15 Summary of Response Rates for Reporting Details of the responses from each group used in reporting aspects of judicial performance are included in the table below. Table 1: Answered Questions About Aspects of Invitation Method Invitations Sent Judicial Performance Attorney Attorney email 119,479 5,682 Attorney Survey Website N/A 21 Court Attorney (self-select) 58 37 Non-attorney Non-attorney email 117,355 3,794 Court Staff Email Invite (Self-select) 2497 793 Appellate Judge 260 992 Citizen Feedback N/A 43 Juror Survey Unknown 42 B. Methodology The 2024 attorney survey was conducted in four cycles online, beginning on September 10, 2023. Invitations were emailed to attorneys with appearances during the first and second quarters of 2023, 2023. Reminders were sent on September 18 and October 10, 2023. This process was repeated among attorneys with appearances in the third quarter of 2023 with email invitations sent on November 2, 2023, with reminders sent on November 9, 2023, and November 16, 2023. The final data collection occurred in January 2024. On January 14, 2024, invitations were emailed to attorneys with appearances during the fourth quarter of 2023. Reminders were sent on January 23 and January 28, 2023. Invitations were sent out by request throughout the data collection process. In addition to emailed invitations, throughout the entire data collection period attorneys could self-select via a public link. Data was downloaded for analysis on February 5, 2024. Data collection for non-attorneys began on September 9, 2023, and ran through the response deadline of February 4, 2024. Survey invitations were sent via email in quarterly batches to most non-attorneys, mirroring the process used for attorneys. Court staff members were also invited via email but using a different process. Rather than be invited to evaluate specific judges, staff are provided with a list of all judges in their district or county and allowed to choose which to evaluate. Jurors received email invitations and were also allowed to self-select via publicly posted links. The general public was also allowed to self-select via a separate public link. This survey was open for the entire data collection period and data was downloaded for analysis on February 4, 2024. The survey remained open and any responses for judges received after February 4 were held over for the 2025 evaluation cycle. Citizens could evaluate judges by accessing the survey through a link available on the Colorado OJPE website. C. Questions 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 15 ## Page 16 In the core of the survey, attorneys and non-attorneys (27 attorney and 24 non-attorney) evaluated district and county judges on 50 aspects of judicial performance. These aspects represent the behaviors that judges should or should not demonstrate. The questions asked of attorneys and non-attorneys are listed in the following table: Questions for Attorney to evaluate district and county judges Case Management Promptly issuing a decision on the case after trial Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings Promptly ruling on pre-trial motions Setting reasonable schedules for cases Provides an alternative to in-person hearings when appropriate Application and Knowledge of Law Is able to identify and analyze relevant facts Bases decisions on evidence and arguments Issues consistent decisions when the circumstances are similar Rulings cite the applicable substantive law Consistently applies laws and rules Fails to provide a proper legal basis for a decision Communications Makes sure all participants understand the proceedings When issuing a ruling, the judge fails to provide an explanation for the decision Provides written communications that are clear, thorough, and well- reasoned Listens carefully during court proceedings Demeanor Gives proceedings a sense of dignity Treats participants with respect Overreacts to an incident(s) in the courtroom Addresses individuals (e.g., attorneys, court staff, litigants, public witnesses) disrespectfully in the courtroom Maintains a professional demeanor in the courtroom Diligence Uses good judgment in application of relevant law and rules Is willing to handle cases on the docket even when they are complicated and time consuming Does the necessary “homework” and is prepared for cases Fairness Conducts their courtroom in a neutral manner Is fair and impartial to both side. Appears to decide the outcome of the case before all evidence Unnecessarily restricts a party’s presentation Questions for Attorney to evaluate appellate judges 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 16 ## Page 17 General Is fair and impartial toward each side of the case Conducts hearings in a neutral manner. Writing Writes opinions that are clear. Writes opinions that adequately explain the basis of the Court's decision. Issues opinions in a timely manner. Makes decisions without regard to possible criticism. Makes reasoned decisions based upon the law and facts. Refrains from reaching issues that need not be decided. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 17 ## Page 18 Questions for Non-Attorney to evaluate district and county judges Case Management Promptly issuing a decision on the case after trial Maintaining appropriate control over proceedings Promptly ruling on pre-trial motions Setting reasonable schedules for cases Provides an alternative to in-person hearings when appropriate Application and Knowledge of Law Is able to identify and analyze relevant facts Gives reasons for rulings Willing to make decision without regard to possible outside pressure. Communications Makes sure all participants understand the proceedings Uses language that everyone can understand Speaks clearly so everyone in the courtroom can understand what's being said Gives reasons for a ruling when needed Demeanor Gives proceedings a sense of dignity Treats participants with respect Has a sense of compassion and human understanding for those who appear in court Diligence Begins court on time Maintains appropriate control over proceedings. Sets reasonable schedules for cases. Is prepared for cases Manages court proceedings so there is little wasted time. Fairness Gives participants an opportunity to be heard Treats those involved in the case without bias Treats people fairly who represent themselves Gives each side enough time to present their case D. Analysis and Reporting Attorneys were asked to rate the judges on these aspects of judicial performance using the categories of Never or Almost Never, Once in a While, Some of the Time, Frequently, and Every or Almost Every Time. These categories were converted into a numeric scale from 0 to 4: Never or Almost Never – 0; Once in a While – 1; Some of the Time – 2; Frequently – 3; Every or Almost Every Time – 4. For the following questions, the scales were reversed because these are behaviors judges should not demonstrate: Never or Almost Never – 4; Once in a While – 3; Some of the Time – 2; Frequently – 1; Every or Almost Every Time – 0. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 18 ## Page 19 Application and Knowledge of Law Fails to provide a proper legal basis for a decision Communications When issuing a ruling, the judge fails to provide an explanation for the decision Demeanor Overreacts to an incident(s) in the courtroom Addresses individuals (e.g. attorneys, court staff, litigants, public witnesses) disrespectfully in the courtroom. Fairness Unnecessarily restricts a party’s presentation Appears to decide the outcome of the case before all evidence These aspects were grouped by topic into different categories; six categories for district and county judges. The district and county categories were Case Management, Application and Knowledge of Law, Communications, Demeanor, Diligence, and Fairness. Questions regarding appellate judges were divided into two categories, one for general questions and one specific to their writing (only asked of those who indicated they had experience with the judge’s or justice’s written opinions). The results include an overall grade, a grade for each category, as well as a grade for each question. The overall score is calculated by averaging the responses to all questions answered by the attorneys. This score will have the same numerical range as the individual questions, from zero to four. Each category score is calculated by averaging the responses to all questions answered by the attorney within each category. This score will have the same zero to four numerical range as the individual questions. Similarly, an average score is calculated for each individual question with the exception of the final question on meeting performance standards. The overall average and category scores are reported for each judge along with the average scores for the judge’s peers. The average score (with the exception noted above) is reported for each question along with the peer group score. In addition, the report includes the distribution of responses for each question, i.e., the percentage of attorneys that indicated they observed this behavior (six categories). In a final question, respondents were asked if they thought the judge met judicial performance standards. This is reported in the Performance Scores section of the report. Changes in 2024 Cycle A new system of ratings was developed and used during the 2024 cycle. Prior to the 2024 cycle, the aspects of judicial performance were rated using a grade scale of A, B, C, D, or F. E. Comments At the end of each group of questions, attorneys and court staff had the option of leaving comments about the judge’s performance in that area. Attorney and court staff also had the option to leave comments about the judge’s strength and weakness. All respondents had the option to leave comments about the judge’s performance in general. By statute, these comments are confidential and only provided to the judge and the District Commission on Judicial Performance. They are not released to the public. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 19 ## Page 20 Appendix 2. Survey Methodology - Di strict Judge Survey by Appellate Judges Methodology and How to Read Results A. Response Rates Invitations were sent via email to all 37 Supreme Court justices and Court of Appeals judges. Of these, 9 completed the survey and felt they had sufficient knowledge of Judge Schutte to evaluate their performance. B. Methodology Appellate judges were surveyed to evaluate the performance of district judges standing for retention. This evaluation of district judges was conducted via an online survey hosted in the Voxco® survey software. An email invitation was sent on January 16, 2024. Reminders were sent on January 22 and January 29, 2024. C. Questions Due to the considerable number of judges being evaluated, the district judge evaluation survey consisted of a single question pertaining to each judge. Appellate judges and justices were asked to evaluate the district judge’s overall performance as a judge on a grade scale of A through F, with A being Excellent and F being Fail. To reduce bias in the survey, the district judges being evaluated were grouped by district with the districts presented in random order. D. Analysis and Reporting For analysis, letter grades were converted to a numerical score where A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D = 1 and F = 0. The overall score is calculated by averaging the responses to all questions answered. This score will have the same numerical range as the individual questions from zero to four. The overall average is reported for each judge along with the average scores for the judge’s peers. In addition, the report includes the distribution of responses for each question; that is, the percentage of respondents who assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, and F. E. Comments Respondents were given the option to leave supporting comments in a box next to where they graded each judge. By statute, these comments are confidential and only provided to the judge and the District Commission on Judicial Performance. They are not released to the public. 2024 Judicial Performance Survey Report for Judge Anita M. Schutte 20

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

• 2024 evaluation on OJPE · scraped Apr 17, 2026