Sec.51-44a-20. Criteria for candidates for judicial office

The following criteria shall be considered in evaluating candidates for judicial office:

(1) Does the candidate possess the statutory qualifications for office?

(2) Does the candidate possess the minimum qualifications under sections 51-44a-1 to 51-44a-21, inclusive, of these regulations for judicial appointment?

(3) Does the prospect possess legal ability that is exemplified by professional excellence, a degree of intellect and a technical proficiency equal to that required by the highest standards of the practicing bar?

(4) Is the candidate generally intelligent and knowledgeable?

(5) Is the candidate capable of making up his or her mind and rendering decisions?

(6) Is the candidate prompt in the performance of duties and obligations?

(7) Would the candidate be an impartial judge rather than an advocate?

(8) Could the candidate act without being duly affected by criticism, partisan demands, public clamor or considerations of personal popularity or notoriety?

(9) Does the candidate possess the qualities of honesty and integrity?

(10) Could the candidate, as a judge, be fair, impartial, and free from prejudice and bias?

(11) Is the candidate courteous and considerate?

(12) Is the candidate patient, attentive and temperate?

(13) Would the candidate respect the confidence inherent in the office of a judge?

(14) Is the candidate free of tendencies which would indicate the possibility of abuse of the power or prestige of office?

(15) Is the candidate free from activities or relationships which might tend to interfere with the candidate's performance as a judge?

(16) Would the candidate conscientiously perform the duties of a judge?

(17) Is the candidate industrious and well organized?

(18) Is the candidate courageous?

(19) Can the candidate live and carry out family obligations on the judicial salary? If not, what are or would be other sources of income?

(20) Given that the essential functions of being a judge are the ability to preside over a court, to analyze cases, and to render decisions based on the law and facts, can the candidate perform these essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation?

(21) Does the candidate have the ability to express himself or herself clearly and to write clear and concise opinions?

(22) Is the candidate's personal conduct compatible with judicial dignity?

(23) Could the candidate conduct judicial proceedings with appropriate dignity and decorum and within the canons of the Code of Judicial Conduct?

(Effective December 22, 1994)