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EVALUATION CRITERIA For the 2010 evaluation, standards approved by the City Council in the past were taken into consideration. The committee also took advantage of work done by the Federal Bureau of Justice Administration (BJA) and the National Center for State Courts (NCSC) that developed a set of model judicial performance standards now adopted in several state court systems. We reviewed the criteria used by the evaluation committees in 2002 and 2006, which was largely based on the BJA/NCSC model standards applicable to judges, and felt the criteria was appropriate for our use in the 2010 evaluation. By using approximately the same criteria, we felt it would facilitate comparisons with the prior evaluations. The 31 standards were organized into six job elements sections, shown below: 2010 Judicial Performance Evaluation Criteria Section I. Legal Knowledge and Ability in Judicial Role 1.The judge’s actions in court demonstrate knowledge of substantive law. 2.The judge’s actions in court demonstrate knowledge of the rules of evidence. 3.The judge’s actions in court demonstrate knowledge of rules of procedure. 4.The judge makes decisions based on law, facts, and sound legal reasoning. 5.The judge’s sentencing decisions demonstrate knowledge of sentencing laws and appropriate use of available sanctions. Section II. Case and Courtroom Management 6.The judge complies with recognized guidelines for timely case processing, keeping current with incoming caseload. 7.The judge conducts court proceedings punctually. 8.The judge makes ruling and renders decisions promptly. 9.The judge maintains a dignified demeanor and proper control in the courtroom. 10.The judge encourages appropriate settlement negotiations and promotes negotiation without coercion or threat. Section III. Equality, Fairness, and Integrity 11.The judge shows courtesy and respect to all participants in court proceedings. 12.The judge shows fairness and impartiality to all parties in the case and avoids any action that appears to prejudge the outcome of the case. 13.The judge’s actions and decisions show no bias based on race, gender, economic status, or their factors external to the facts of the case. 14.The judge’s overall conduct is free from impropriety or the appearance of impropriety and promotes public confidence in the court. 15.The judge deal effectively and appropriately with non-English speaking defendants, and shows respect. Section IV. Oral and Written Communication 16.The judge explains court procedures clearly and simply for all court participants. 17.The judge listens attentively and actively to all court participants. 18.The judge’s oral and written directions and decisions in court clearly and unambiguously address the issues presented and the compliance actions required. Section V. Judicial System Administration and Representation 19.The judge works effectively with the municipal court administrator, other judges, court staff, court participants, city council, and other agencies to maintain and enhance court system effectiveness. 20.The judge participates appropriately and effectively in reviews of court policy and procedure. 21.The judge ensures that mandated changes in statutes, case law, and court procedure are promptly implemented. 22.The judge participates effectively and resourcefully in administrative problem resolution. 23.The judge establishes a clear focus for administrative projects and monitors progress