League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Los Angeles County, CA November 2, 2004 Election
	Daniel Zeke Zeidler Answers Questions Candidate for Superior Court Judge; County of Los Angeles; Office 53

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. Why are you running for Superior Court Judge?

I believe that judicial officers can have an incredible impact on people's lives, as decision-makers in positions of authority, providing guidance, direction, and serving as role models. I have been lucky to observe many judicial officers whom I admire and respect. I have used them as role models and have worked to incorporate and integrate what I have learned from them--both style and substance--into my own actions.

I do not seek a judicial position with an idealized view. My work as a Superior Court judicial officer for the past five years has taught me that being on the bench can, at times, be isolating; the decisions are often difficult; and the pressures can be daunting. I understand the need to constantly be juggling many responsibilities, moving a heavy calendar, for example, while always being aware of the record being made, and, at the same time, managing court staff, attorneys, and parties.

Becoming a judge would allow me to expand my judicial experience into many additional areas of law and to increase my involvement in the administration of the courts.

2. What are the personal qualities which best equip you to serve as a judge?

A number of my past involvements have prepared me for this position. My experience as a public interest attorney representing abused children, has provided me with an understanding of how foreign and frightening the judicial system can be for the parties. As a daily courtroom litigator and presently as a judicial officer, I have gained practical skills and a working understanding of the legal processes in high volume courtrooms.

As a human relations facilitator, I have honed my skills in bringing people together to understand their commonalities and their differences, improving communication and often making consensus possible. As a school board member for five years, I obtained the experience of being held accountable for my actions and decisions in the public arena.

I am gratified by the impact I have made as a referee. Administratively, I cleaned up a congested courtroom calendar which was impacted prior to my arrival. I have worked hard to ensure that my decisions have been carefully and thoughtfully reasoned and supported by the law. And I have also strived to gain the respect of the attorneys, parties and court staff.

I was honored by the Juvenile Courts Bar Association as the 2002 Outstanding Juvenile Court Judicial Officer, and I am proud to have been endorsed by many Court of Appeal Justices who review my transcipts on a regular basis.