Jay G. Harris
District Court Judge
4th Judicial District
Guadalupe, Mora, and San Miguel Counties
Year: 2002
Evaluation: Judge Harris received favorable ratings as part of this evaluation. Strengths include fairness, legal ability, and control over judicial proceedings. For example, respondents generally agree that he is attentive to proceedings, courteous and dignified to all participants, rules on motions and cases in a timely and impartial manner, and is knowledgeable about the law. Since his last evaluation, Judge Harris has maintained high ratings from attorneys. However, survey results indicate that one area in need of improvement involves his communication with and demeanor toward some of the employees of the district. Judge Harris has expressed a willingness to improve in areas of weakness identified by previous evaluations.
Experience & Education: Judge Harris has served 16 years in his current position. Before being elected to the District Court, Judge Harris spent fifteen years in private practice. He has been instrumental in establishing a new drug court and pro se clinic. His commitment to community service is evidenced by his selection as a Distinguished Citizen by the Great Southwest Council of Boy Scouts. Judge Harris received his undergraduate degree from Highlands University and his law degree from the University of Colorado.