Here We Go Again - Halverson To Appeal

Disgraced Judge, Elizabeth Halverson plans to appeal the decision that permanently removes her from the bench. Halverson has 15 days to appeal the decision to the Nevada Supreme Court.

The Nevada Judicial Discipline Commission issued the decision on Monday following an investigation into serious misconduct allegations including lying under oath, sleeping on the bench, inappropriate contact with jurors, and abuse of staff.

Michael Schwartz, Halverson's lawyer, says that his client was not surprised by the decision and added that she should not be removed from office.

Schwartz said, "Knowing the facts of the case, I don't believe there's a basis to have that kind of disposition."

The ruling comes after more than a year and a half of fighting between the judge and Nevada’s judicial system. Prior to and during the hearing, Halverson was unsuccessful in petitioning several courts, including the Nevada Supreme Court and federal court, to intervene on her behalf.

Halverson was suspended from the bench in July 2007, but has continued to collect her $130,000 annual salary. As of Monday, she will no longer receive that paycheck.

She is not eligible for a pension, as Nevada judges need to serve for five years before they can collect.

KTNV

Las Vegas Review-Journal