Thirteenth Judicial District - District Court Judge
Honorable Robert James
Retention Year: 2024
Recommendation: Meets Performance Standards
Reports:
2024 Retention Survey Report (PDF)
2023 Interim Survey Report (PDF)
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The Thirteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance unanimously agrees by a vote of 7-0, with two members absent and one vacancy, that Judge Robert James MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
Judge James was appointed as a District Court Judge in the 13th Judicial District in October 2021. Judge James’ docket consists of mostly criminal (62%), probate, civil, domestic relations, mental health, and juvenile cases. Before taking the bench, Judge James’ background was largely in criminal law. Judge James has spent significant time and energy immersing himself in civil law to compensate. Preparation and diligence are hallmarks of Judge James’ work on the bench; he is always well versed on the issues before him because of the work he does in advance of court appearances. Judge James values the integrity of the court and the importance of fairness for all parties. Judge James treats all people who appear in his courtroom with the highest amount of respect. Judge James runs his courtroom efficiently and effectively and makes great effort to ensure that the time of the parties before him is not wasted.
The Commission conducted a personal interview of Judge James, reviewed samples of his written rulings, observed him in court, and reviewed survey responses from people familiar with him. Judge James scored above average on a survey of lawyers and non-lawyers who appeared before him. Comments from both lawyers and non-lawyers surveyed were overwhelmingly positive. During his interview with the commission, Judge James fielded questions pertaining to his relationships, technology, survey results, and impartiality. The Judicial Performance Commission found that Judge James meets or exceeds expectations in categories (Case Management, Application and Knowledge of Law, Communications, Demeanor, Diligence, or Fairness) the Commission is tasked with evaluating him on.
Judge James is a Colorado native who was born and raised in Estes Park. Judge James received a bachelor’s from Colorado State University and a law degree from the University of Colorado. Judge James has spent his entire legal career in Eastern Colorado.