Seventh Judicial District - Montrose County Court Judge
Honorable Kurt Michael Beckenhauer
Retention Year: 2024
Recommendation: Meets Performance Standards
Reports:
2024 Retention Survey Report (PDF)
2023 Interim Survey Report (PDF)
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The Seventh Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance unanimously agrees by a vote 8-0, with one absent and one Commissioner vacancy, that Judge Kurt Michael Beckenhauer MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
Judge Beckenhauer was observed as having a calm and professional demeanor while presiding over the Courtroom. Judge Beckenhauer was praised by the Commission for his ability to treat parties fairly and consistently, with a judicial manner suited to his position. He is conscientious and has excellent attention to detail. Judge Beckenhauer’s opinions reflect his knowledge of the law and willingness to perform thorough legal research. His work speed in the courtroom during busy dockets has increased with time and experience on the bench. The Commission appreciates Judge’s Beckenhauer’s conscientious approach but notes this can also sometimes cause delays in the issuance of written opinions.
The Commission suggests that Judge Beckenhauer be mindful of this and use best efforts to improve the timeliness of his written work product. The Commission interviewed Judge Beckenhauer via zoom video conference on April 25, 2024, with various Commission members observing him in Court, either in person or via electronic means prior to that evaluation. The Commission also spoke with representatives of the District Attorney’s Office and the Public Defender’s Office, and the Chief District Judge for the Seventh Judicial District. Judge Beckenhauer presides over civil, criminal, traffic and small claims cases in Montrose County. His criminal docket includes both felony and misdemeanor-level cases. This is a part-time position for Judge Beckenhauer, due to the volume of cases filed in the West End of Montrose County. Judge Beckenhauer also serves as a district court magistrate within the Seventh Judicial District; that is considered a separate position and is not the subject of this review.
Judge Beckenhauer was appointed to be the Associate County Judge for the West End of Montrose County in August of 2018. Prior to his appointment, Judge Beckenhauer worked as a deputy district attorney in the Seventh Judicial District.