Los Angeles County, CA March 7, 2000 Election
Smart Voter

The Role of a Judge

By Douglas G. Carnahan

Candidate for Judge of the Superior Court; Office 31

This information is provided by the candidate
Commissioner Carnahan believes that the role of a judge in American society is to follow the law, behave independently as he or she understands the law, and to treat all persons - litigants, victims, and attorneys - with calmness and dignity.
The role of a judge is sometimes misunderstood. Judges should act as the law demands and should not make law. Judges should be independent, and should not be afraid to follow the law where it leads, no matter what. At the same time, judges must be calm and dignified and must treat everyone who comes before them with respect and concern. This applies not only to litigants but to witnesses, victims, attorneys, and court personnel. Judges should not be afraid to speak out on issues affecting the administration of justice, so long as the judge adheres to the Code of Judicial Conduct regarding public comment. Community outreach by judges is an important duty of the office and should be a main concern of any judge. Finally, judges have a professional duty to keep abreast of legal developments and should constantly study the work of the legislature and of higher courts so as to keep themselves informed.

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