The Role
of a
Judge
The role of a Circuit Court Judge carries tremendous responsibility. Every day, judges make decisions that affect individuals, families, businesses, and our community. Those decisions require more than legal knowledge—they require fairness, integrity, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
The Deschutes County Circuit Court touches nearly every part of our community. It hears criminal cases, family law matters, juvenile cases, civil disputes, probate, guardianships, and more. Behind every case are real people navigating some of the most important moments of their lives.
The responsibility of a Circuit Court Judge is not to advocate for one side or another. It is to ensure every person who enters the courtroom receives a fair hearing, that the law is applied faithfully, and that every decision is made with integrity, professionalism, and respect.
That responsibility is what has inspired Raun Atkinson throughout his legal career and why he is seeking the opportunity to serve on the bench.
Every Decision Matters
Fairness Begins with Listening
Every case deserves to be heard on its own merits.
Judges should approach every matter without preconceived conclusions, carefully considering the facts, the law, and the arguments presented before reaching a decision.
Raun believes fairness is the foundation of our justice system. It requires patience, preparation, and the willingness to give every person an equal opportunity to be heard.
"Fairness isn't about favoring one side. It's about faithfully applying the law after hearing both sides."
The courtroom should reflect the highest standards of professionalism.
Throughout his legal career, Raun has believed that respect for the legal process begins with respect for the people participating in it.
One example has become a personal tradition.
Before every jury verdict is announced, Raun shakes the hand of opposing counsel.
Whether the verdict ultimately favors his client or not, the gesture serves as a reminder that while attorneys advocate passionately for different positions, they share a common responsibility to uphold the integrity of the justice system.
Professionalism is not just good manners—it strengthens public confidence in the courts.
Professionalism Builds Public Trust
Respect for Every Person
Every courtroom brings together people from different backgrounds and circumstances.
Victims
Defendants
Parents
Children
Witnesses
Jurors
Attorneys
Each deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
Raun believes one of a judge's most important responsibilities is ensuring every person who enters the courtroom feels heard and treated fairly, regardless of the outcome of their case.
Integrity Above All Else
Judges do not serve political parties.
They do not serve special interests.
They serve the law.
Raun believes every decision should be guided by the facts presented, the law as written, and the Oregon Constitution—not personal opinions or outside pressures.
Integrity is earned through consistency, impartiality, and the courage to make difficult decisions based solely on what the law requires.
Justice delayed can become justice denied.
A well-managed courtroom benefits everyone involved.
Attorneys can better serve their clients.
Victims receive timely resolutions.
Families can move forward.
Jurors know their time is respected.
Court resources are used responsibly.
Raun believes judges should strive to maintain courtrooms that are organized, prepared, and respectful of everyone's time while never sacrificing thoughtful consideration of the issues before them.
Justice Requires Efficiency
Why Raun?
Throughout his career, Raun has experienced the courtroom from multiple perspectives—as a prosecutor, a defense attorney, a business owner, and a veteran committed to public service.
Those experiences have reinforced one belief:
The role of a judge is not to decide who deserves fairness. It is to ensure everyone receives it.