Twentieth Judicial District - Boulder County Court Judge
Honorable David A. Archuleta
Retention Year: 2010
Recommendation: Retain
Reports:
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The Twentieth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance unanimously recommends that Judge David A. Archuleta BE RETAINED.
Judge Archuleta was appointed to the Boulder County Court in June, 1999. Prior to his appointment, Judge Archuleta served as a Deputy District Attorney for the 20th Judicial District from 1990 to 1999, and worked for a short time in private practice. Judge Archuleta received his law degree from the University of Colorado in 1989. Judge Archuleta has actively engaged in professional training, including attendance at conferences on domestic violence, ethics, courthouse security, elder abuse and specialized drug courts to deal with repeat DUI offenders. Judge Archuleta has also been active in professional organizations.
Judge Archuleta engages in community service within the limits set by the Judicial Canons.
Judge Archuleta’s caseload involves misdemeanors, traffic offenses and preliminary matters involving felony charges. He also handles civil matters where the amount in dispute does not exceed $15,000. Judge Archuleta spends the majority of his time handling the misdemeanor, traffic and felony cases. The Commission reviewed survey evaluations of Judge Archuleta from attorneys and non-attorneys who have been in his courtroom, including written comments attached to the questionnaires. All of the attorneys who were surveyed expressed an opinion about retention, and 95% recommended retention, and 5% recommended against retention. Of all non-attorneys surveyed, 91% recommended retention, 4% recommended against retention, and 4% expressed no opinion. Of those non-attorneys expressing an opinion, 95% recommended retention and 4%recommended against retention. Attorneys rated Judge Archuleta above average in each of the 17 categories and non-attorneys rated Judge Archuleta above average in each of 19 categories.
The Commission also considered Judge Archuleta’s self-evaluation, conducted a personal interview with him, and observed him in his courtroom. The Commission’s observations
were consistent with the survey results, and the Commission is impressed with the judge’s professionalism, courtesy, judicial temperament, knowledge of the law, diligence and efficiency. Some attorneys surveyed believed that the judge shows some bias toward the prosecution, although a strong majority found him to be completely neutral, and the survey results on this topic were significantly better than the average. The Commission is convinced that Judge Archuleta is unbiased and even-handed. Judge Archuleta’s courtroom demeanor is exemplary. He maintains an even pace to his docket but insures that those appearing before him, especially people without attorneys, have a full understanding of the judicial process.
Judge Archuleta received unanimous support in his last evaluation and the Commission believes that he continues to improve as a judge.