Item B: Mid-Point Evaluation for Judge Allen

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or who is confused. The goal of this court is to be sure that each person leaves the court having understood what their rights were, what happened, and the basis for the judge’s decisions. Another part of the communication issue is the ability of the judge to listen carefully so that everybody is able to be heard completely and accurately. Many times I have appeared as a litigant in other courts and been disappointed in the court’s failure to listen carefully and completely to a person’s testimony or statement. Long ago I vowed that would not be the case in this court. Section IV: Judicial Temperament & Conduct Each person who appears before the court should be treated with respect and courtesy. I try to insure that I am courteous and respectful to all. I want the perception of the court to be a good one. Many time there are circumstances and statements to which one could react. It is often difficult not to do so, but I try hard to refrain from reacting. One the other hand, the court has to control the proceedings and a firm but fair hand is occasionally necessary. The court expects the litigants and attorneys to be punctual. They have the right to expect the same. Therefore, we make every effort to begin our proceedings on time. The parties also have the right to a prompt decision. Hopefully the decision can be made at the time the parties are before the court. I try to avoid taking matters under advisement unless necessary. It is occasionally necessary to do so when the legal issues are complex and reflection and research must be given to them. In those circumstances, I try to rule on the case immediately, while the issues are fresh in my mind and so that the litigants can have a prompt decision. I know from my experience as a private attorney that it is frustrating for litigants to go to court and not learn of the court’s decision for weeks after that appearance. I encourage all of the assistant judges to also rule promptly. I feel that the court should be dignified but I also feel that it should be approachable. People should not be so intimidated that they cannot fully present their case or understand the court’s ruling. Therefore, I try to maintain a balance between being approachable and fulfilling the role of the judge who is in control of the courtroom. Section V: Administrative My role in the administration of the Court has increased significantly in the last few years. I now attend Management Team meetings and other Management Team functions on a regular basis. Either myself or the other Judges are involved in many of the processes of the Court such as the evaluation of the Court appointed Attorneys, the Prosecutor’s Office, the jury system, etc. I have greatly enjoyed the increased administrative role and believe that it is appropriate that it should continue. I strive to have a good relationship with the judges whom I supervise, the staff, the agencies who interact with the court, and the attorneys who appear before the court. I have had a large agenda of projects. Many of those projects have been completed. I have reviewed most policies and 2008 JUDICIAL PERFORMANCE REVIEW-3