League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area Education Fund
Hamilton County, OH November 4, 2008 Election
	Jerry Metz Answers Questions Candidate for Judge; Court of Common Pleas; 6 Year Term Starting 2/10/09

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What are the two most pressing issues you will face if you are elected? (50 word limit)

1. Protecting public safety and our essential freedoms.

2. Expediting the prompt decision of cases to avoid clogging the docket and crowding our local jails.

2. How will you address each of those issues? (100 word limit)

1. My top priority as a judge will be to serve the people of Hamilton County with a firm commitment to justice. I will impose sentences on those convicted appropriate to their crime. I will assure due process for the protection of the innocent.

2. I will expedite decision of cases through hard work and good management of cases.

3. What is your position on merit selection of the judiciary? (100 word limit)

I support merit selection of judges. I have helped put merit selection on the Ohio ballot before. Properly done, merit selection systems recruit and appoint the best-qualified individuals as judges. Bi-partisan nominating commissions--of lawyers, judges, and citizens--can recruit and recommend to the governor well-qualified candidates. Confirmation by the state legislature can provide an additional check against political appointments. And, appointed judges still must face regular retention elections in which the voters determine whether they should continue in office. Such yes/no elections give voters a meaningful choice as opposed to often-unopposed elections we see today.

4. What would be a fair way to evaluate the performance of a sitting judge? (100 word limit)

Good evaluation systems collect data from attorneys and jurors who have seen the judge in action. They evaluate: 1) integrity, 2) knowledge of the law, 3) communication ability, 4) preparation and control of judicial proceedings, 5) management skills, and 6) punctuality.

I have worked to develop a solid reputation for integrity and knowledge of the law. I teach lawyers and at Xavier University ("Law and Ethics"). I write concise legal briefs. I have honed decision-making as an arbitrator. I have applied case management skills to expedite cases. I will always be punctual both in hearing cases and deciding them.

5. What is your opinion about mandatory sentencing? (100 word limit)

The legislature decides whether to establish mandatory sentences for particular offenses. Judges are duty-bound to impose sentences required by law.

Though intended to provide consistency in sentencing, mandatory sentences may in fact deliver "equal sentences to unequal offenders." Good judges' sentences represent a "conscientious judgment." Taking account of the law, and constrained by experience and tradition, such judges better impose punishment consistent with the particular crime and circumstances.

Mandatory sentences may increase trials as fewer defendants plead guilty. Some (actually guilty) may be acquitted, or prosecutors may reduce charges in exchange for a guilty plea. Does either promote justice?

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. The answer must not exceed 100 words. Direct references to opponents are not permitted.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: October 2, 2008 05:07
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