Legal Review Committee Agenda and Packet 2020 03 09

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Statement of Interest and Qualifications Helen (not her real name), a defendant in Louisville, was obviously nervous in the crowded courtroom. Charged with Careless Driving, she accepted the prosecutor’s offer to reduce the charge and entered her guilty plea. As she appeared before me, she stated that she made a simple mistake and decided not to drive anymore due to her declining health. I reviewed Helen’s record and asked, “Is this the first ticket you have ever received?” She answered yes, and I asked, “when did you begin driving?” 1959, she answered. I thanked her for her outstanding driving record, told her that she earned a suspended fine, and asked her to have a great day. By taking this action, I let Helen and the entire courtroom know that I listened, always considering each case as unique. Instead of simply imposing a scheduled fine and moving on, I accomplished something more for that entire court session and subsequent defendants. Most looked forward to a fair, positive experience and better appreciated the concept of justice and a fair judge. I welcome observation and criticism. I am told my greatest strength as a judge is encouraging defendants, particularly juveniles, to invest in changing behavior, almost in collaboration with, rather than simply imposed by me. I am fair and capable of developing consequences, but at the same time dedicated to evidence-based sentencing to correct behavior. I believe judges must act with restraint and consideration, while maintaining the rule of law. In a judicial association meeting, colleagues heard me say that being appointed as a judge should not come at the expense of one’s humanity. I stand by that statement. I dedicated my professional life to the municipal bench since being appointed in 2014. I am prepared for court and strive to increase my knowledge of issues and the law through professional development with the Colorado Municipal Judges Association. I bring a bearing of professionalism, high standards and understanding to municipal court. Given that many people have their only contact with our justice system at the municipal level, I strive to make certain that defendants feel heard and that the system treats them fairly. I am passionate about working in a municipal court and setting an example of a fair justice system. Louisville and Superior have been my home for the past 24 years and I am in a unique position to be invested in and care about this community as a resident of suburban east Boulder County. This is the place I intend to remain. I appreciate the opportunity to continue serving the City of Louisville as I have since 2007.