The Eighth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance recommends that Judge Daniel J. Kaup BE RETAINED. The recommendation of the Commission's ten members was based upon a 6-4 vote.

Judge Kaup's term as District Court Judge in the Eighth Judicial District began November 2001 and his docket consisted primarily of civil, criminal, and probate cases and drug court. Preceding his appointment, Judge Kaup was in private practice in the North Park area (Walden) for 23-years. His practice included general civil, probate and domestic relations, water law and part-time appointments as deputy district attorney, county attorney, and town attorney.

The Commission reviewed the 2004 Judicial Performance Survey data from attorneys and non-attorneys prepared by the Colorado State Commission on Judicial Performance. The survey evaluated case management, application and knowledge of the law, communications, demeanor, and diligence. The Commission reviewed a written self-evaluation and interviewed Judge Kaup. The Commission also interviewed attorneys and non-attorneys having professional contact with Judge Kaup, conducted a public hearing, and made courtroom observations.

Based upon the Commission's review, the judge received positive scores related to his treatment of persons appearing in his court, especially within drug court, and in assisting parties to reach settlements. However, the judge's skills in the areas of case management and application and knowledge of law were deemed to be areas of future improvement. Accordingly, the judge and the Commission have agreed on a performance plan to strengthen these judicial skills.

The Commission believes that Judge Kaup's commitment to a performance plan for continuing self-improvement will benefit the Eighth Judicial District. Therefore, a majority of the Commission recommends Judge Kaup's retention.

View the complete Judicial Performance Report for the Honorable Daniel J. Kaup in pdf format.

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