Candidates line up for top judge spot

PROVIDENCE - Rhode Island’s top federal prosecutor and five judges were fielding questions Tuesday about their temperament, experience and priorities as they compete to become the next chief justice of the state’s highest court.

Acting state Supreme Court Chief Justice Maureen McKenna Goldberg told the Judicial Nominating Commission that her decades of experience as a prosecutor, trial judge and her status as longest-tenured member of the bench qualify her to be New Hampshire’s top judge.

Goldberg was the first of six candidates to be interviewed Tuesday evening.

Goldberg said she had authored over 300 opinions in her 12 years on the court and had a hand in more than 1,000 decisions. But she also was asked about her frequent recusals from cases because she
is married to Robert Goldberg, a prominent Statehouse lobbyist.

“A judge must be able to assure himself or herself that one can render a result in a case in a fair and impartial manner,“ she said.

Asked about her reputation among some lawyers for being abrupt and prickly on the bench, she replied: “I would basically describe myself at times as being blunt. I don’t believe that I am demanding
but I am known for being fair.“

She said would be a “bit more restrained than Chief Justice Williams,“ whom she called “exuberant.“

Other candidates include Justices Francis Flaherty, Paul Suttell, William Robinson, U.S. Attorney Robert Clark Corrente and Superior Court Judge Francis Darigan.

They’re competing to succeed Williams, who retired in December after eight years as chief justice.

The commission is questioning each candidate during a public session. Another public hearing is scheduled for next week.

The panel will recommend three to five candidates to Gov. Don Carcieri. Lawmakers must confirm the nominee Carcieri selects.