Colorado Court of Appeals
Honorable James S. Casebolt
Retention Year: 1996
Recommendation: Retain
The State Commission on Judicial Performance recommends that Judge James S. Casebolt BE RETAINED.
Judge Casebolt was admitted to the Bar of Colorado in 1975. He was engaged in the private practice of law in Grand Junction, Colorado until his appointment to the Colorado Court of Appeals on February 12, 1994.
Judge Casebolt has been actively involved in community activities, The Mesa County Bar Association and the Colorado Bar Association. He has authored a manual entitled “Civil Jury Selection and Pattern Voir Dire” that includes questions for potential jurors and procedures for trial courts that has been recommended for us in al trial courts in Colorado.
Judge Casebolt maintained his primary residence in Grand Junction until August 15, 1996, when he moved to Denver. By employing advanced computer and communications technology, Judge Casebolt was able to participate fully in the work of the Court of Appeals. Judge Casebolt has authored the highest number of opinions by the appellate judges standing for retention at this election. The State Commission view Judge Casebolt’s use of advanced technology as a positive situation because it enabled him to maintain presence for the Court of Appeal on the western slope. Hi participation with trial judges and bar associations on the western slope increased the dialogue between practicing lawyers, trial judges and the appellate courts. Since Judge Casebolt practiced exclusively in the area of civil litigation, he has made a concerted effort to become familiar with the areas of substantive criminal law and sentencing.
Attorney questionnaires received by the State Commission rate Judge Casebolt highly overall. He received high marks for integrity, equal treatment of all persons, knowledge of law and procedure and patience and attentiveness at oral arguments. Of the responses received from attorneys, 73.5% voted to retain Judge Casebolt, 23.5% had no opinion and 2.9% voted not to retain Judge Casebolt.