Robert Beaird 16th Judicial Circuit (Jackson County)

Recommendations

The 16th Circuit Judicial Performance Evaluation Committee recommends that Judge Robert Beaird BE RETAINED.

Position

Associate Circuit Judge

Evaluation

2008

Background

Judge Beaird was appointed as an associate circuit judge of the Circuit Court of Jackson County in 2002. He attended the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where he received both his undergraduate and law degrees. Before his appointment to the bench, Judge Beaird was the Jackson County prosecutor and a Jackson County legislator.

Discussion

Judge Beaird was evaluated by attorneys who appeared in court before him. Attorneys rated judges in 16 separate categories on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best rating. The attorney ratings for Judge Beaird included: 4.56 for understanding rules of procedure and evidence; 4.55 for treating people equally regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, economic status or any other factor; 4.51 for displaying fairness and impartiality toward each side of the case; 4.32 for giving reasons for rulings; 4.32 for clear written opinions and orders; and 4.31 for effectively using pretrial procedure to narrow and define the issues.