The Fourteenth Judicial District Judicial Performance Commission unanimously agrees 7-0, with three commission vacancies, that Judge Nicholas Catanzarite MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS .
The Commission personally interviewed Judge Catanzarite, observed him in Court, reviewed judicial performance data, written orders, survey responses, and reviewed a self-evaluation completed by his Honor. It was clear from the interview that Judge Catanzarite has grown significantly in his role since 2015 and excels as a valuable judicial officer in the 14th Judicial District. The Commission was disappointed by the lack of participation in the survey results and would encourage the public to participate in the future. Survey responses were statistically unrepresentative and lacked sufficient context to provide meaningful feedback to the Commission. Judge Catanzarite handles a combined docket of traffic cases, civil disputes including small claims, criminal, and misdemeanor cases. Judge Catanzarite possesses an excellent judicial temperament and treats those in his courtroom with patience and respect. He demonstrates a breadth of legal knowledge and has developed strong processes supporting judicial efficiency. Judge Catanzarite displays good control of his courtroom with pro se and represented litigants alike. The Commission is pleased that Judge Catanzarite has embraced virtual courtroom proceedings to support accessibility of the Courts. The Commission encourages Judge Catanzarite to require video appearance (as opposed to audio-only) whenever possible to promote traditional standards of decorum. Judge Catanzarite has developed his skill in delivering oral rulings for expediency and continues to strengthen his organization and clarity in oral rulings. The Commission commends his Honor for the quality of his written rulings as well. Judge Catanzarite has also demonstrated leadership in the judiciary as part of the CourtCall pilot program and addressing pro se litigants’ increasing use of Artificial Intelligence to generate pleadings which can strain judicial resources. The Commission appreciates his more than a decade of service to the 14th Judicial District and finds Judge Catanzarite ranks high in demeanor, control, fairness, and efficiency.
Based on all the aforementioned considerations, the Judicial Performance Commission recommends that Judge Catanzarite meets performance standards.
Judge Nicholas Catanzarite was appointed to Grand County Court in 2015. Prior to his appointment to County Judge, he practiced law in Grand County for 3 years with a focus on criminal defense, real estate, and family law. Judge Catanzarite earned his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Denver in 2011.
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