What is your legal/judicial background?
I am a General Jurisdiction District Court Judge in the State of Nevada (Second Judicial District Court) and have been since 2012. I left a very active state and federal trial practice to take the bench.
In what NJC course do you teach? What subjects do you teach within that course?
I am largely focused on opinion writing courses and courtroom efficiencies. I have taught Essential Skills for Tribal Judges/Judicial Writing, Conducting the Trial, and Administrative Law: High Volume Decision Writing among other courses.
Do you teach elsewhere? If so, where? What subjects do you teach there?
Yes, I teach at the University of Nevada, Reno in the Criminal Justice Program.
What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of teaching judges at the NJC?
The unfamiliarity with the law and practice in different jurisdictions.
What aspect of teaching at the NJC do you enjoy most?
The ability to acquaint myself with so many accomplished jurists from all over the nation.
What do you find most rewarding about teaching at the NJC?
The sharing of ideas and perspectives has made me a better, more thoughtful and innovative judge.
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you in an NJC classroom?
Generally, the funniest things at NJC occur in the cafeteria where we all stuff ourselves like college freshman.
What does The National Judicial College mean to you?
The NJC is the ultimate teammate for any bench, especially for newer judges who may feel overwhelmed when they first take the bench and are looking for some guidance. I know that cutting edge, innovative practices and trends are at my fingertips – the NJC is right there to provide support and direction. Every judge knows they have a partner in the NJC.
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