As an attorney for over 40 years, I have practiced before district judges across the state. I have observed four characterisitcs that make a great district judge.
They must be available. Many district judges have other employment. This greatly decreases the time they and their staff are in the office. District Judge Carolyn Bengel has no other job. She is a full-time judge. She and her staff keep consistent hours.
They must be reliable. I have experienced district judges who leave early, even when litigants are still waiting, because their child has a softball game, they have a fundraiser, etc. Bengel is always there until the last case is heard, sometimes well into the evening. She never rushes through the docket.
They must be knowledgeable. Some district judges are not attorneys. That in itself is not a bad thing if they keep up with current law and court rulings. In fact, some judges who are lawyers are less than up to date. Bengel has always impressed me with her broad knowledge of current court rulings.
They must be compassionate. The law is not black and white. Some good people make a mistake, and some bad people do not deserve a break. Bengel treats everyone as an individual and often makes the best of what could be a bad situation.
In short, Bengel is available, reliable, knowledgeable and compassionate. As a working attorney, or a citizen of this district, you cannot ask for more.
William T. Krzton
Harrison