First Judicial District - District Court Judge
Honorable James D. Zimmerman
Retention Year: 1990
Recommendation: Retain
Judicial Performance Commission’s recommendation: Should Be Retained.
Judge Zimmerman was appointed to the District Court in 1982. His past experiences include several years as a county court judge in Jefferson County and four years as a deputy district attorney for the 1st Judicial District. He was appointed to the Jefferson County Community Corrections Board and has been chairman since 1987. He participates in community activities such as Boy Scouts and student mock trials.
Zimmerman presides over criminal and civil cases. He hears domestic relations cases and appeals from county courts. All groups support Zimmerman’s retention. He is praised for his extensive knowledge of the law and his professionalism. He is well-prepared and conducts a well-organized court. Several respondents, in domestic cases, felt he is short-tempered and insensitive. He is generally tough on criminal sentencing.