Fifteenth Judicial District - Baca County Court Judge
Honorable W. Michael Porter
Retention Year: 1998
Recommendation: Retain
The Fifteenth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance unanimously recommends that Baca County Court Judge W. Michael Porter BE RETAINED.
Judge Porter was appointed to the bench in September of 1994 and began his duties in January of 1995. Prior to his appointment, Judge Porter was a practicing attorney, having a general practice for 15 years in his native Baca County.
Judge Porter is strong in his ability to be patient, impartial, consistent in applying the law, and consistent at sentencing. He displays common sense in his dealings with all persons involved in the judicial system. He is punctual for Court settings and hearings and is prompt in issuing rulings, whether oral or written.
While Judge Porter may admit that he does not "know" the law as well as some other judges, he thoroughly researches the issues before him in order that a concise and competent ruling is entered.
His stated goals are: to provide litigants a forum in which they will receive a fair and impartial hearing; to learn; to treat people appearing before him with respect given the adversarial nature of the courtroom setting; and to maintain a respectful demeanor.
It is the consensus of the Commission that the Honorable W. Michael Porter is a good judge; he has the respect of his peers and attorneys and citizens of the community he serves.