1
8
9
4
8
7
8
9
10
IX
18
15
14
1&
16
17
18
19
80
81

Although a four-tier system of state courts is
anticipated, a matter we partially support, you should
view this as a dual arrangement* That is, we will hae
trial courts and appellate courts. Certainly this divi-
sion is extremely important for, one, the overwhelming
majority of citilens involved in either civil or criminal
trials are concerned only with trial courts. The judi-
cial process at this level is a very personal one and
the judicial officers of the courts must be acutely
conscious of the human element in justice not only from
the standpoint of plaintiff and defendant, but also
with respect to the jury when one is involved.
Judges of the court at the trial level are
very much public officers. They are involved daily with
the citizens and they should be responsible to the citi-
zens. This does not mean trial court judges should allow
opinions to affect their decisions, I mean public
opinions. An extended term of office as we propose in
the minority report would insure against this prospect
and judges elected thereunder will continue to apply the
law and not concern themselves with popularity polls.