Monday, April 6, 1998 | 11:38 a.m.
Whoever gets the nod, that person won't be thrown into any ordinary judicial environment. It's hardly an understatement to say that Clark County's Family Court has had its share of problems in the past year. The court has been under fire from critics who believe the judges have been inconsistent in their rulings and have not been collegial.
During a legislative hearing last month, Washoe District Court Judge Scott Jordan was asked why Clark County's Family Court was having so many troubles. Jordan mentioned a heavy caseload as one factor, but he also pointed to the lack of teamwork by the Clark County Family Court judges. "There is a lack of cohesion in the court. Unfortunately it won't be addressed until the personal differences are resolved," Jordan said. Judges typically are circumspect when they comment on fellow jurists, so when one of their own points out a problem, the public tends to listen.
The state Commission on Judicial Selection will interview the eight Family Court candidates and whittle these down to three finalists. The names will then be submitted to Gov. Bob Miller, who will make the appointment.
As the commission and governor deliberate on who should be appointed, it's hoped that the judge selected isn't someone who is going to use the post as a political springboard for another elective judicial office. What the Family Court needs is someone serious about tackling the job he or she is appointed to do and then finishing that task.
In addition, the person will need to be a team player who can get along with other people. The judge also must be able to let his or her ego take a back seat to the principle of justice. Without a doubt, Family Court presents some of the most difficult challenges for a judge, but they are surmountable if one possesses diligence and professionalism.
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