Treisman on role as judge
My role is to follow the law. Experience, expansive knowledge and a thirst to learn more will help me in that endeavor. However, judicial demeanor and temperament are a state of being rather than a set of characteristics that are adorned and shed as we go to work and return home. I am mindful that a judge is a judge on and off the bench. For that reason, as now, I would conduct myself with dignity and show respect for others. In addition, I am mindful that the justice system is entirely about human beings and human behaviors that do not always rise to the level of our aspirations.
For those who come to my courtroom, I will be making the process clear and understandable; remaining a compassionate human being while I do the work of resolving differences and dispensing justice. This means listening well, determining the truth, evaluating harm and making rulings that are based on the facts before me. It means hearing from victims, families and loved ones and balancing punishment with the prospect of rehabilitation. Knowing the difference between serious and violent crimes that call for prison and crimes that might be addressed through treatment, in addition to recognizing everything in between, is what I will bring to the bench. As a prosecutor I have advocated for life sentences for some and I have requested probation for others. I have made the tough calls of evaluating cases and determining when there was insufficient evidence and I have dismissed cases that could not be proven. I have been making these difficult judgments my entire career. As a result, the exercise of judicial discretion will be familiar, drawn from experience and based in the law.
Finally, maintaining an open and fair courtroom by ensuring proper application of the law, respectfully listening to the litigants, preserving the rights of parties and the dignity of witnesses and victims requires candor, patience and direction. I will encourage a community presence in my courtroom and all who share a willingness to respect each other will be welcome and heard. Of course breaches of civility will not be tolerated. However, I find that making expectations known at the outset, and explaining the process greatly reduces outbursts and indiscretions. Knowing the time and procedure to provide input, engages the parties and the public while informing and contributing to confidence in the outcome. It is trust and confidence through open and respectful procedures that I am seeking to reinforce.