Lynch, Thomas 2018 Evaluation

Reports:
2018 Retention Survey Report
2017 Interim Survey Report

The Eighth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance unanimously finds that Judge Thomas L. Lynch MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.

Judge Lynch was appointed to the Larimer County Court in 2010. Prior to his appointment, he served as a Deputy District Attorney in Larimer County and was engaged in non-legal work in the private sector. Judge Lynch received both his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Wyoming. As a Larimer County Trial Court Judge, Judge Lynch presides over criminal, traffic, and civil cases, including small claims. 

The Commission conducted a personal interview with Judge Lynch, reviewed opinions he authored, observed him in court, reviewed comments received from the Chief Judge, District Attorneys and Public Defenders Offices during the evaluation process, and reviewed survey responses from attorneys and non-attorneys who had experience with Judge Lynch. When survey respondents were asked “Do you think Judge Lynch meets performance standards?” 92% of the attorneys and non-attorneys responding concluded that Judge Lynch meets judicial performance standards. Among the attorneys responding, 92% said Judge Lynch meets performance standards and 8% said he does not meet performance standards.  Among the non-attorneys responding, 92% said Judge Lynch meets performance standards, 5% said he does not meet performance standards, and 3% had no opinion. A total of 24 attorneys and 62 non-attorneys responded to the judicial performance surveys regarding Judge Lynch.  When evaluating whether a judge meets performance standards, the Commission considers the following criteria: Case Management, Knowledge and Application of Law, Communications, Diligence, Demeanor, and Fairness.

Judge Lynch received excellent ratings in the areas of judicial temperament, communication and demeanor. Judge Lynch received high marks from both attorneys and non-attorneys who responded to the survey questions in the areas of diligence and knowledge and application of the law. Judge Lynch keeps current with the law by attending judicial conferences and tracking emerging case law. Because of concerns regarding pre-hearing preparation raised during the evaluation process, the Commission recommends that Judge Lynch be more proactive in reviewing and researching specific legal issues for upcoming hearings. Comments regarding Judge Lynch’s docket management identified the slow pace of proceedings in his courtroom, however, the Commission values his efforts to ensure fair treatment and clear communication, over the speed of proceedings. The Commission finds that Judge Lynch conducts himself in a highly professional manner, and treats all parties with dignity and respect.  Judge Lynch is self-reflective and willing to incorporate feedback. The Commission believes he is a strong judge whose performance will continue to meet and exceed performance standards.