John J Riley 22nd Judicial Circuit (St. Louis City)

Recommendations

The 22nd Judicial Circuit Judicial Performance Evaluation Committee recommends that Judge John J. Riley BE RETAINED.

Position

Circuit Judge

Evaluation Year

2008

Background

Judge Riley was appointed to the 22nd Judicial Circuit Court in 1995. He is a native of St. Louis. He holds a bachelor of science degree from Saint Louis University and a juris doctorate from Saint Louis University Law School. He previously was a municipal judge for the City of Black Jack since 1983.

Judge Riley is a member of The Missouri Bar, the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and the Reserve Officers Association. He is also a member of St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church as well as the Shaw Neighborhood Improvement Association. He is a former member of the Truman-Koch Welfare Association.

Discussion

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

Judge Riley received his highest scores for demonstrating appropriate demeanor on the bench (4.67); treating people equally regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, economic status or any other factor (4.65); and allowing parties latitude to present their arguments (4.61). Judge Riley’s lower scores were for not being affected by partisan considerations (4.43), effectively using pretrial procedure to narrow and define the issues (4.45) and being prepared for hearings and trials (4.49).

Juror surveys indicated that Judge Riley is conscientious, fair, prepared, and clearly explains court proceedings and legal issues.

The committee also reviewed an opinion written by Judge Riley. His ruling tended to be well-reasoned, clearly written, faithful to the Constitution, statutes, and case precedents, and generally understandable.