League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Los Angeles County, CA November 4, 2008 Election
	Steven A. Simons, Sr Answers Questions Candidate for Judge, Superior Court; County of Los Angeles; Office 72

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.)

• 21½ Years Civil Trial Litigator
• Experience - Civil, Criminal, Probate Law
• Over 150 Trials and Arbitrations
• Nominated as Pro Bono Attorney of the Year 2008

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

In determining the length of a sentence a Judge must exercise the wisdom of Solomon. While there must be sufficient leeway allowed so that the punishment fits the crime, the Judge must uphold the People's intent in the enactment of the law. In those cases where the law requires a maximum sentence the Judge should be bound to impose that sentence with equality and consistency to all those charged with the crime.

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.)

The Constitution guarantees openness and transparency in our Courtrooms. Such openness reduces judicial anarchy. Any broadcast of courtroom proceedings must, of necessity, balance the rights of the accused and the rights victims with the right of the People to know that justice is being done. I would seek to open the Courtroom to greater media presence, utilizing modern capabilities and technology to facilitate the openness and balancing these rights.

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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 2, 2008 01:15
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