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• Author: Mark Thompson/Elizabeth Smith
• Pages: 1016-1016

Retired Judges

1006Van Camp California Judge Reviews

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Van CAMP, Brian R.

FROM THE BENCH

Judge Van Camp graciously responded to written ques-

tions regarding his courtroom preferences and procedures.

In limine motions are treated as noticed motions and

are to be filed in compliance with CCP Sec. 1005 (b) and

(c); Judge Van Camp issues tentative rulings on all written

motions. Judge Van Camp may question witnesses during

court trials. Lawyers need not seek permission to enter the

well or approach the bench, a witness, or exhibits. Speaking

objections are not allowed. This jurist “always find[s] trial

briefs helpful.” Judge Van Camp allows jurors to submit

written questions for the witnesses. After examining the

questions with counsel out of the presence of the jury, and

ruling on any objections, he asks the jurors’ remaining ques-

tions to the witness(es), after which each lawyer may ask

follow-on questions to the jurors’ questions.

VICTOR, A. [Aiden] Rex

Temperament/Demeanor

All of the interviewees shared positive comments about

Judge Victor’s demeanor. They said, “He’s professional and

quick-witted,” “[Judge Victor’s temperament is] good,” “He

can be rather humorous,” “He’s an assertive, no-nonsense

judge” and “[Judge Victor’s mien is] professional.”

Intelligence/Knowledge

Every interviewee gave Judge Victor high praise for his

legal acumen. A few of them described it as “excellent.”

Others opined, “It’s above average,” “Judge Victor’s legal

knowledge is superior” and “He’s very bright and focused.”

On Motions

Some interviewees said Judge Victor’s courtroom man-

agement style is “between formal and relaxed.” Others said,

“Judge Victor’s style is a no-nonsense one—he’s in charge

but not heavy- handed,” “His style is relaxed” and “His style

is relaxed and efficient.” Every interviewee said Judge Victor

is courteous to all who appear in front of him. They also

said he usually takes the bench on time. Some felt, “He’s as

regular as a clock” and “Judge Victor is very prompt.” One of

them added, “... and you better not be late.”

On Trial

All of the interviewees said Judge Victor listens closely

to their arguments. As one of them opined, “He’ll always

listen closely to a well-crafted argument.” They also agreed

that Judge Victor keeps an open mind to their arguments.

The majority of lawyers said Judge Victor’s courtroom atmo-

sphere is “very comfortable.” One of them added, “... if you’re

well prepared.” One disagreed with the majority and opined,

“Judge Victor’s courtroom atmosphere is tense.” Most inter-

viewees said Judge Victor moves his caseload at an “aver-

age” pace. One other attorney said this jurist moves matters

at an “appropriate” pace. Every litigator interviewed said

Judge Victor is capable of handling complex civil law cases.

A majority of the attorneys familiar with the quality of Judge

Victor’s longer written decisions either said, “They’re of good

quality” or “They’re well-reasoned.” They also agreed that he

usually gets his decisions out on time. Only one lawyer dis-

agreed with the others and said the quality of Judge Victor’s

written decisions “varies.”

Continuances

Most interviewees said you have an “average” chance of

getting Judge Victor to grant a continuance based upon

demonstrated good cause. The remaining attorneys all said,

“He’s reasonable” about granting continuances.

Settlement

A slight majority of the interviewees either said, “Judge

Victor is proactive” or “pretty proactive” about helping law-

yers settle their cases. The remaining attorneys said, “He’ll

help settle cases if asked.” Most of the lawyers ranked Judge

Victor’s settlement skills as “good.” Others said his negotiat-

ing skills are “average” or “above average.”

Proclivities

Judge Victor seems to have impressed interviewees with

the overall neutrality of his rulings and decisions. Comments

included: “He’s pretty fair,” “Judge Victor is impartial,” “He’s

fair,” “Judge Victor is neutral” and “He’s conservative but

fair minded.”

Summary

Additional comments include: “Once you get on his bad

side, you and your entire firm will always remain there” and

“He rules decisively, knows the laws of evidence and lets

you try your case.” Interviewees seem to appreciate Judge

Victor’s unusually strong legal knowledge, pleasant demean-

or and ability to properly manage his courtroom. Judge

Victor was also praised for listening closely to attorney’s

arguments and keeping an open mind. (04H)

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