Julian Bush 22nd Judicial Circuit (St. Louis City)

Recommendations

The 22nd Judicial Circuit Judicial Performance Evaluation Committee recommends that Judge Julian Bush BE RETAINED.

Position

Circuit Judge

Evaluation Year

2008

Background

Judge Bush was appointed to the 22nd Judicial Circuit as circuit judge in 1995. He graduated from George Washington University with a bachelor of arts and from Washington University School of Law with a juris doctorate. Before his appointment as circuit judge, he served as an assistant city counselor.

Discussion

Attorneys surveyed were asked to rate Judge Bush on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing “not at all” and 5 representing “completely.”

Judge Bush received his highest scores in being prepared for hearings and trials (4.38); maintaining and requiring proper order and decorum in the courtroom (4.35); giving reasons for his rulings (4.16); being competent in the law (4.29); understanding the rules of procedure and evidence (4.33); and having written opinions and orders which are clear (4.18).

Of the jurors who responded to the juror survey, Judge Bush received only four “no” responses in the areas of: acting in a dignified manner, clearly explaining court procedure, clearly explaining the legal issues of the case, and clearly explaining the responsibilities of the jury. All other juror responses were “yes,” and one juror stated that Judge Bush “far exceeded the expected standards where knowledge, professionalism, and dignity were concerned.”

The committee also reviewed a writing sample submitted by Judge Bush. His opinion appeared to exceed the minimum standards for legal writing.