Jeffrey L Bushur 16th Judicial Circuit (Jackson County)

Recommendations

The 16th Circuit Judicial Performance Evaluation Committee recommends that Judge Jeffrey L. Bushur BE RETAINED.

Position

Associate Circuit Judge

Evaluation Year

2010

Background

Judge Jeffrey L. Bushur was appointed to the 16th Circuit Court in 2000. He obtained a B.A. in philosophy and communication studies from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and a J.D. from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law in 1986.

Judge Bushur’s previous judicial assignments include associate criminal, circuit criminal arraignment, adult and child orders of protection, traffic and tickets. He also teaches in the CLE program for judges.

Discussion

Judge Bushur was evaluated by attorneys who appeared in court before him. Attorneys rated judges in 18 separate categories on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best rating. He received his highest scores for: being competent in the law (4.20); for understanding rules of procedure and evidence (4.15); and treating people equally regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, economic status or any other factor (4.11). Judge Bushur’s lower scores were for: displaying fairness and impartiality toward each side of the case (3.75); demonstrating appropriate demeanor on the bench (3.52); and for efficiently managing his docket (3.23). However, the committee notes that Judge Bushur’s lower scores were far above the average for retention.

Judge Bushur did not provide a written opinion because his docket is such that he does not write opinions.