In Rigorous Preparation, the DJ profiles 4/2's Justice Richard Fields who "aims to consistently produce high-quality opinions." "Fields served for 26 years as a superior court
judge and commissioner in Riverside County, including a two-year stint as
presiding judge. He was appointed to Division 2 of the 4th District by Gov.
Jerry Brown in December 2016...." "In order to get his appellate opinions just right, he said he
and his staff review them multiple times. Fields said he hopes the opinions make
clear to the parties and lawyers that their briefs and arguments were closely
considered. He will sometimes suggest additional facts be added."
"Unlike most appellate courts, the 4th District division in
Riverside issues tentative rulings prior to oral arguments. Fields said he
enjoys the practice, and attorneys have expressed support as well. Rather
than having to be a master of the entire case record, the appellate lawyers can
focus on the points raised in the tentative, he said. The court will
occasionally reverse its tentative opinions after oral arguments, the justice
said, though lawyers will often waive argument after reviewing the initial
opinions."
"Attorneys uniformly say Fields treats them with
great respect and kindness." "Fields credited his Christian faith, which he
said has taught him to esteem others more than himself. The justice also said
his mother, who lived a life of serving others, set a great example." "Fields received the Alba Witkin Humanitarian
Award from the California Judges Association in 2013."
Posts
