Twentieth Judicial District - Boulder County Court Judge
Honorable David A. Archuleta
Retention Year: 2002
Recommendation: Retain
Reports:
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The Twentieth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance recommends that Judge David A. Archuleta BE RETAINED.
The Commission conducted public hearings, observed courtroom conduct, interviewed the judges, reviewed surveys, received public comments and reviewed the judge's self-evaluation in making this recommendation.
After employment as a Deputy District Attorney in the Boulder County District Attorney's Office, Judge Archuleta was appointed to the Boulder County Court bench in 1999. He is the Boulder County Judge assigned to the Boulder County Court - Longmont Branch.
Judge Archuleta received high ratings from attorney and non-attorney respondents to surveys. Attorneys recommended Judge Archuleta's retention by 79% with 8% recommending non-retention and 13% offering no opinion. Non-attorneys recommended retention at 90% with only 3% recommending non-retention.
Judge Archuleta is seen as administering tough sentences in both DUI and domestic violence cases. He operates an efficient courtroom. His policies and procedures appear to be effective in managing a busy docket.
The Commission did note that only 31% of attorney respondents gave Judge Archuleta the highest grade in the area of making the correct decision based upon the law and the facts. Non-attorneys surveyed gave him 74% on this same question. Twelve of 15 comments from attorneys regarding issues of impartiality expressed concern that Judge Archuleta might unfairly favor the prosecution. However, 78% of the non-attorney respondents indicated he is fair and impartial. Concerns were expressed within the Commission as to his lack of impartiality. This is an area where the Commission believes improvement is needed.