How do you balance the need for justice with the rights of the accused in a case?
At this time, I primarily handle a civil docket. However, I do also still handle some criminal matters. The rights of the accused are very well-defined by case law, statutes, and the State and US Constitutions. Following the law is the easiest way to protect those rights. As a threshold matter, justice generally comes in the form of a decision made by the trier of fact (either the jury or a judge). However, depending on your position regarding the case justice may look very different.
I believe the best way that the court can promote a feeling of justice is to try my best to ensure that all parties feel that they had a fair opportunity to be heard and present their case without bias or prejudice to either party.