Item A: Judicial Report - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

1. Defense Attorneys appearing in Eugene Municipal Court during the past four years, 2. City prosecutors, 3. Court interpreters and volunteer advocates who have worked in Eugene Municipal Court during the last four years, 4. Eugene Police officers, 5. Other Eugene Municipal Court judges, and 6. Eugene Municipal Court staff. SURVEY RESULTS Detailed results are shown in an attachment to this report. Overall the survey return rate was 25.6% with 266 surveys sent and 68 returned. This is consistent with the survey return rate in 2006 of 24.1.9%. The greatest number of surveys received were from Eugene Police (30), followed by defense council (17). Survey respondents assessed Judge Allen’s performance as very positive; with the majority either strongly agreeing or agreeing that he met all of the performance standards described in the survey. The overwhelming majority of comments about his performance as presiding judge were very positive. Some examples of these comments are listed here: “Judge Allen is a pleasure to work with. His ability to listen, understand and help resolve issues is very much appreciated. I appreciate his open door policy and his direct approach. He keeps court on solid ground and is concerned and knowledgeable about the community. He is a very kind and caring man.” “I think Judge Allen is very fair and a great judge for the Municipal Court.” “I appreciate Judge Allen's experience and temperament on the bench. I'm certain his job is not easy and likely very frustrating at times. His longevity enables him to run a very professional and efficient courtroom. The court staff consistently impress me with their professionalism and friendly demeanor. It is a pleasure to try cases in this court.” “I’ve been working as an Interpreter for 20 years, Judge Allen is a gentleman, caring and good person, is always a pleasure to work with him.” “Good job! Enjoy having Judge Allen hear my cases.” The few negative comments from survey respondents were primarily related to the supervision of the associate judges and the monetary sanctions imposed by the court. “Judge Allen does a good job managing the court. I have been disappointed in the lack of legal knowledge of some of the pro tem judges.” “Some of the other judges are not as competent and make silly rulings.” “I agree in part, but not all of the associate judges follow established protocols or treat the City fairly in some trial and pretrial matters.” “A couple of judges want the defendants to be innocent.” “Except again, regarding the issues of homeless people--how can you fine someone who has no $$. This is not only a judge issue but of course public policy as well. Sometimes the judge comes off overly jaded in favor of police and against citizens during pro se bench trials.”