Circuit Judge

2014

Judge Kenneth R. Garrett, III was appointed as circuit judge in 2013. He was an associate circuit judge in the 16h Judicial Circuit from 2010 to 2013. Previously, he had served as an assistant prosecuting attorney and an assistant attorney general. Judge Garrett received his undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and his Juris Doctor from the same institution.

Judge Garrett is a board member of the Children Emergency Fund and Debate Kansas City. He is a Volunteer for Success court supporter at Northeast High School, and the treasurer of the Sugar Tree Estates homes association.

The committee evaluated Judge Garrett based on the results of ratings and comments submitted by attorneys who have appeared in Judge Garrett’s courtroom. The results of those ratings and comments are reviewed and discussed below.

Attorneys who appeared before Judge Garrett responded to survey questions rating Judge Garrett on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing a response of “Strongly Disagree” and 5 representing a response of “Strongly Agree.” He received his highest scores for: addressing individuals (e.g., attorneys, court staff, litigants, public, witnesses) respectfully in the courtroom (4.78); maintaining a professional demeanor in the courtroom (4.72); and treating parties equally (4.72).  Judge Garrett received lower scores for: issuing orders that are clearly written (4.43); rulings citing the applicable substantive law (4.34); and assisting parties in narrowing key issues in dispute (4.30). The committee notes that his lower scores are well above the level supporting retention.

No juror surveys were available. Judge Garrett was an associate circuit judge before being appointed circuit judge in 2013, where jury trials are not normally conducted.