Second Judicial District - District Court Judge
Honorable Robert L. McGahey Jr.
Retention Year: 2008
Recommendation: Retain
Reports:
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The Second Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance unanimously recommends that Judge Robert L. McGahey, Jr. BE RETAINED.
Background: Judge McGahey was appointed to the Denver District Court bench in December 1999. Prior to his appointment, Judge McGahey was in private practice, specializing in insurance defense matters. He received his undergraduate degree from Princeton University in 1971, and his law degree from the University of Denver College of Law. In his first year, Judge McGahey heard domestic relations matters. Since then, he has presided over both a civil and a criminal courtroom and currently hears a variety of civil matters. The Commission reviewed written evaluations of Judge McGahey from attorneys and non-attorneys. Respondents were asked to rate Judge McGahey in five major categories: demeanor, fairness, communication, diligence and application of the law. Also, the Commission considered a self-evaluation completed by Judge McGahey, written opinions by Judge McGahey, and conducted a personal interview with him.
Strengths: In many categories, ratings for Judge McGahey from non-attorneys were above those given by attorneys. The ratings by non-attorneys were significantly above those for other Colorado district court judges being considered for retention this year. These positive comments from non-attorneys stem from Judge McGahey’s high marks with regard to his courtroom demeanor, treating all parties fairly, especially pro se litigants, and making sure all participants understand the proceedings, and what’s going on in the courtroom. During Judge McGahey’s interview with the Commission, he attributed these high marks from non-attorneys to his management of the courtroom docket as well as being open and communicative with all parties. Judge McGahey emphasizes his role as a mediator, getting parties to reach agreement without the stress and expense of a formal trial. Among attorneys, he was rated highly for management of
his docket and promptness in issuing orders and rulings.
Recommendation: Among the attorneys responding to the survey, 95% favored retention. Among non-attorneys responding to the survey, 97% favored retention.