League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Los Angeles County, CA November 4, 2008 Election
	Thomas Rubinson Answers Questions Candidate for Judge, Superior Court; County of Los Angeles; Office 82

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Los Angeles County and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. Please provide a brief list of your qualifications in bullet format. (No more than 25 words for this section.)

• 17 years, Deputy District Attorney
• 6 years, Hardcore Gang Division
• 88 felony jury trials
• Promoted to leadership/management roles
• Demonstrated commitment to community service

2. How much flexibility should judges have in determining the length of sentences? (No more than 150 words total for questions 2 and 3.)

Judges should enjoy significant flexibility in sentencing, but not unlimited flexibility. The People, through the Legislature, have the right to set the general parameters as to the range within which the judge must select a sentence. But the judge must retain flexibility within that range, as it is the judge who knows each individual defendant, case, criminal history, and individual's circumstances, all of which are relevant factors for determining the appropriate sentence.

3. Should more trials be covered by TV and radio? How would you handle media coverage in your courtroom? (No more than 150 words total for questions 2 and 3.)

I am in favor of TV and radio covering trials, so long as it is done responsibly. The goal should be to educate the public as to our legal system, not to create sensationalistic tabloid material. As a judge, I would generally look favorably upon applications for TV and radio coverage, unless it appeared that such coverage would prejudice either side, reduce the chance of a just outcome, or pose a security risk to anyone.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Until 5:00 p.m. on September 5, 2008, candidates for Superior Court Judge must limit their answers to 175 words total for all questions so that a paper Voters Guide may be published. Specific word limits are as follows: 25 words for question 1; 150 words total for questions 2 and 3.

After 5:00 p.m. on September 5, 2008, word limits will no longer apply. Candidates' responses are not edited or corrected by the League or by Smart Voter, and must comply with California law as stated in California Election Code sections 13307 and 13308. Candidates are restricted to identifying their own qualifications and may not comment on any other candidate’s qualifications, character, or activities.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: September 6, 2008 01:55
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