Milwaukee, WI –March 22, 2016 Each year prior to the spring elections, the Milwaukee Bar Association surveys its members regarding the qualifications of judicial candidates that appear on the ballot in Milwaukee County. The members are asked to designate each candidate as “qualified” or “not qualified.” Members not familiar with a candidate’s qualifications have the option of indicating “no opinion.” The poll is restricted to MBA members.
Along with the ballot are suggested criteria by which to assess the qualifications of each candidate. The criteria include:
- Integrity, including the ability to decide issues without regard to the identity of the parties or counsel, and without concern for the public reaction to the decision.
- Knowledge and understanding of the law.
- Communication skills, including clarity of thought and, when applicable, rulings or writings.
- Preparation, attentiveness, and control over proceedings.
- Management skills, including the devotion of appropriate time to conflicting work requirements.
- Punctuality.
- Service to the profession and to the public.
- Effectiveness in working with other judges.
The poll had nearly a 15% return rate. The results of the poll (not all respondents expressed opinions on each candidate) are below.
