Meet the Candidates: Department 31

Phil Dabney

1. Why do you want to be a judge?

I was a law clerk for Earle W. White, Jr., from 1987 to 1988. I saw first hand how a trial court judge can impact the lives of those who are before the Court. Judge White gave me significant responsibilities as a law clerk, and I enjoyed being involved in the role of decision making in the litigation process. I found the job to be intellectually stimulating and gratifying. I decided from that experience to develop skills that would eventually qualify me to be a trial judge. I also wanted my development to help me determine if I had the right temperament and attitude to be a good judge.

2. Why are you qualified to be a judge?

I became qualified to be a judge through the development process that I started after being a law clerk for Judge White. I have spent about 23 years as a civil litigator with a concentration on commercial and construction litigation of all varieties. I also have litigated personal injury cases on behalf of plaintiffs and defendants. I have earned the peer review distinction of an AV rating with Martindale Hubbell as a result of my successful practice.

About 15 years ago I became trained as an arbitrator for commercial and construction disputes with the American Arbitration Association and for court-mandated arbitrations. I have presided over many arbitrations and written my own decisions on all cases

About eight years ago I applied for and was appointed as a Pro Tem Judge in Las Vegas Justice Court. I have served there for many of the judges when they are away for training or on vacation or sick leave. The staff members of the judges I serve for have complimented my ability to handle the case load and make appropriate and fair decisions, and they continue to call on me to serve.

I also applied for and became a Short Trial Judge in the District Court's award-winning program about eight years ago, when the program was formed. In that program, I preside over cases where the damages are $50,000 or less and the dispute can be tried in a single day. I've been assigned to dozens of cases over eight years, and about 20 have gone to trial. About half of those trials were decided by a jury, and the rest were decided in a bench trial with me acting as the finder of fact. In those cases, I wrote my own Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, a practice I would continue if elected to the bench.

Those three experiences -- 23 years as a litigator in civil disputes; fifteen years as a successful arbitrator; and eight years as a successful appointed judge -- uniquely qualify me for Department 31 in a way that sets me apart from my able opponents.

Since becoming a candidate, I have participated in a number of interviews for endorsements by community groups. I recently learned that the Las Vegas Metro Police Protective Association endorsed my candidacy for Department 31 of District Court. Other endorsements have not been announced to my knowledge, as of the date of this email.

3. Do you read Wild Wild Law? If so, what do you think of the site?

I had not read this site until I received your invitation. It contains some interesting and lively material. Blogging is becoming quite popular and serves a useful purpose. I wish the authors much success.

Joanna Kishner
Campaign Website: http://www.joannakishner.com

1. Why do you want to be a judge?

My family and the Southern Nevada community where I was born are of paramount importance to me. Although I have had the privilege to contribute to the community in many ways throughout my life, including through my charitable endeavors and by serving as a Pro Tem Justice of the Peace, Pro Tem Small Claims Referee, Traffic Court Referee and Arbitrator, I believe that I can best serve Clark County, if I apply my proven skills, experience, and hard work ethic on a full time basis as a public servant. As a Judge, I will ensure that each individual who appears before me is treated with respect, that each case is handled in a manner where the pleadings are fully read and understood, and that in every case, the law is applied correctly and fairly. My breadth and depth of legal experience combined with my dedication to the community and ethical practices will not only allow me to serve the judiciary honorably, but will also allow me to have a positive impact on the community.

2. Why are you qualified to be a judge?

To be a member of the judiciary, an attorney should not only have a breadth and depth of experience and be well regarded among the current judiciary and his/her peers but also the individual has to have demonstrated that she is intelligent, fair, and has integrity. She should also have a record of public service. I believe that I have all of these qualifications.

Since graduating from UCLA School of Law, over twenty years ago, I have litigated, mediated and arbitrated a wide range of cases including complex litigation matters and class actions in various state and federal courts as well as other forums. Given my cases have encompassed not only the state and federal court systems but also administrative forums and alternative dispute arenas, I am able to understand and find creative solutions to try and resolve various cases effectively. As a result of my efforts, I have been recognized by several publications for my legal work including Chambers, Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers. Importantly, my colleagues including those whom I have litigated against and community leaders also have expressed their confidence in my abilities to serve as a Judge. Please see my website at www.JoannaKishner.com for a partial listing of my supporters.

In addition to my legal practice, I have judicial experience. I have had the honor of working in our court systems as a Justice of the Peace Pro Tem, a Pro Tem Small Claims Referee, a Pro Tem Traffic Court Referee and as an Arbitrator for a number of years. In these roles I have handled a wide variety of civil and criminal matters involving both pro se litigants and those represented by counsel. These real life experiences have helped me hone my skills so that I will be a dedicated and capable member of the judiciary. I know what it takes to run an efficient and effective courtroom where not only are the needs of the litigants met but also those of the attorneys and the community at large.

My commitment to the Southern Nevada community and public service is unparalleled. Since I was a youth in Las Vegas, I have contributed my time, skills and resources to help numerous charitable and non-profit organizations. I have continued this commitment throughout my legal practice by donating significant time and resources to various pro bono projects including working with abused and neglected children and others less fortunate in Clark County. I also donate my time to various schools in Southern Nevada.

3. Do you read Wild Wild Law? If so, what do you think of the site?

I have enjoyed the opportunity to view Wild Wild Law on a variety of occasions since it is witty yet informative regarding issues in the legal community.

Josh Kunis - No response received

Marc Risman

1. Why do you want to be a judge?

After practicing law for 31 in Clark County, I look forward to the challenges that I would face as a judge. I remember, when I first started practicing, being mentored by Judges like Bob Legakes and Del Guy. It made me a better lawyer, and I would like to be able to do the same with today's new lawyers. After a case is concluded, I would make myself available to discuss the lawyers' presentation and offer any constructive criticism, or praise, that was warranted. This would also allow me to get feedback on my practices on the bench.

2. Why are you qualified to be a judge?

After practicing law for 31 years in Clark County and appearing before several generations of judges here, I have the experience and temperament to make the right decisions while treating everybody who comes into the courtroom with respect. My clients have included some of the most accomplished names in sports and entertainment and business. These people could have afforded to use any attorney they wanted and I am humbled, yet proud, that they hired me. This is a testament to my legal abilities and work ethic. I have also made my services available to small businesses and hard working people who could not afford to pay my standard fee rate. I have served in leadership positions of several bar organizations and committees, had several legal articles published, and lectured at bar meetings and seminars. I have served on the board of many community and charity groups. Details of these activities can be found on my practice website: www.calneva-law.com

3. Do you read Wild Wild Law? If so, what do you think of the site?

Yes, I appreciate the information and insight posted on the site and appreciate the efforts of those who contribute regularly. As a judge, I would like to contribute on a regular basis.