James D. Whittemore

The star of a weak middle district bench. Very good with complicated issues, but surprisingly error prone on easier, clear-cut issues (perhaps lacks focus or is overly deferential to law clerk on smaller stuff). Also, gets a little preachy with throne syndrome at times.

Bias favoring the government.

A fine judge with a good temperament and no visible bias. Takes the time to get it right. Unlike many of his colleagues, still believes in jury trials, as opposed to summary judgment for defendants, in civil rights cases.

Excellent judge -- one of the best in the district.