Eighth Judicial District - Larimer County Court Judge
Honorable C. Edward Stirman
Retention Year: 2002
Recommendation: Retain
Reports:
The Eighth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance recommends that Judge C. Edward Stirman BE RETAINED.
Judge Stirman was appointed to the bench in June 1999. Prior to his appointment to the bench, Judge Stirman was in private practice in Fort Collins with a practice emphasis in bankruptcy, estate planning and domestic relations. He served as a District Court Magistrate for the Eighth Judicial District from September 1997 until September 1998. Judge Stirman received his undergraduate degree from Colorado State University in 1976 and his law degree from the University of Colorado in 1980. He hears criminal and civil cases in Larimer County Court.
The Commission reviewed written evaluations of Judge Stirman from attorneys and non-attorneys. The Commission conducted interviews with interested parties having functions within the county court. The Commission also considered a written self-evaluation completed by the judge and conducted a personal interview with him.
Numerous individuals cited Judge Stirman as a judge who works to understand all aspects of the law. The judge is regarded as a jurist who listens well and applies the law fairly. He expects attorneys to be well prepared and holds them accountable. He is detail oriented, a hard worker and communicates clearly. Judge Stirman is respected as a principled, ethical and moral jurist.
Interviews and surveys raised concerns regarding Judge Stirman’s courtroom courtesy, demeanor and perceived arrogance. Judge Stirman received high marks for management of his docket. However, there were criticisms that his time in the courtroom could be managed more efficiently. The Commission believes that Judge Stirman needs to manage his courtroom less rigidly and in a more flexible manner as he gains more trial experience.
Judge Stirman has indicated that he is now aware of these perceptions and will work to improve in these areas.
Surveyed attorneys and non-attorneys recommended that Judge Stirman be retained.