March 14, 2014
Honorable Peter J. Cahill Presiding Judge Gila County Superior Court 1400 E Ash Street Globe, AZ 85501 Dear Judge Cahill: I write to announce that I will not seek re-election this year and will be leaving my office on or before December 31, 2014. My specific date of retirement remains fluid. I could certainly continue my service until the end of the year if I were not assigned a criminal calendar. I fear that I do not have the willpower to continue hearing criminal matters for the remainder of my term. For 26 years I found my criminal calendar a pleasant and challenging part of my work. In the last 14 months, though, I have become so dissatisfied and frustrated by the intensity of bulling, cunning use of rules, and political self-interest now practiced in criminal prosecutions that my criminal calendar has become emotionally toxic. The prospect of going through a contested election with the prize being more of the same is not acceptable to me. My family has expressed disappointment that I am being “driven out”, but they support my decision and have expressed relief (my daughter feared for my physical safety or that I might be “set up” in efforts to harm my reputation). My legal career is unblemished; there has never been a formal complaint lodged by the State Bar or the Commission of Judicial Conduct. I have been blessed with dedicated, capable and supportive colleagues and staff and will truly miss working with them. Sincerely, Robert Duber II Superior Court Judge – Div Two |
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