Sec.51-44a-21. Criteria for incumbent judges who seek reappointment to the same court or elevation to a different court


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  • (a) A judge seeking reappointment to the same court or to a different court shall possess, at a minimum, those qualities contained in sections 51-44a-19 and 51-44a-20 of these regulations required of candidates for judicial office.

    (b) The past performance of a judge shall be considered in evaluating the judge for reappointment to the same court or appointment to a different court. In evaluating the past performance of the judge, the following criteria shall be considered:

    (1) Has the judge avoided impropriety and the appearance of impropriety?

    (2) Has the judge remained free from personal bias?

    (3) Does the judge have the ability to decide issues based on the law and the facts without regard for the identity of the parties or counsel, the popularity of the decision, and without concern for or fear of criticism?

    (4) Do the actions and decisions of the judge demonstrate his or her impartiality?

    (5) Does the judge exhibit appropriate "judicial temperament"?

    (6) Has the judge issued legally sound decisions?

    (7) Is the judge knowledgeable of the substantive, procedural, and evidentiary law of Connecticut?

    (8) Does the judge demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of the factual and legal issues before the court?

    (9) Does the judge properly apply judicial precedents and other appropriate sources of authority?

    (10) Are bench rulings and other oral communications by the judge reasonably clear and coherent?

    (11) Does the judge have the ability in written opinions to explain clearly and logically the facts and issues of a case and the relevant legal precedents?

    (12) Is the judge sensitive to the impact his or her demeanor and other nonverbal communications may have on all parties and participants, jurors, and the public?

    (13) Is the judge attentive to and prepared for proceedings before the court?

    (14) Does the judge exercise adequate control over proceedings before him or her?

    (15) Does the judge show courtesy to all parties and participants?

    (16) Does the judge show a willingness to permit every person legally interested in a proceeding to be heard, unless precluded by law or rules of court?

    (17) Does the judge devote appropriate time to all pending matters?

    (18) Does the judge discharge administrative responsibilities diligently?

    (19) Does the judge exercise appropriate responsibility for matters on calendars under his or her control?

    (20) Does the judge promptly handle pending matters?

    (21) Is the judge punctual in meeting time commitments?

    (22) Are time commitments met in accordance with the law and rules of court,

    (23) Does the judge attend and participate in judicial and continuing legal education programs?

    (24) Does the judge, consistent with the highest principles of the law, ensure that the court is serving the public to the best of its ability and in such a manner as to instill public confidence in the court system?

    (25) Is the judge effective and cooperative in working with other judges.

    (26) When part of a multi judge panel, is the judge effective in exchanging ideas and opinions with other judges during the decision making process?

    (27) Does the judge appropriately and with good authority critique the work of colleagues?

    (28) Does the judge facilitate the performance of administrative responsibilities of other judges?

    (29) Does the judge adhere to the canons of the Code of Judicial Conduct?

    (30) Does the judge accept responsibility for a fair share of the judicial workload?

    (31) Is the judge productive?

(Effective December 22, 1994)