LETTERS: JUDGE GIVES HIS APOLOGY

To the editor:

Last fall I made various comments in the press and sent a letter to all state judges in an effort to change the laws of Missouri as they affect a civil defendant's ability to change venue in counties having a population in excess of 75,000.

The Code of Judicial Conduct encourages me to speak or write concerning the law, the legal system and the administration of justice. However, such comments must not cast doubt on my capacity to impartially decide issues which may come before me nor call into question the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.

Some of my comments question the integrity and independence of the judiciary. I have great respect for members of the Supreme Court, the judges of the metropolitan judicial circuits and all other of my fellow judges regardless of whether they agree with my opinions on venue or not. I hereby extend an apology to all judges who were offended by those remarks.

In addition, some of my comments cast doubt on my capacity to impartially decide personal injury matters. I wish to assure the public and bar that I am and intend to be a fair and impartial judge in every type of case I am called upon to hear regardless of the litigant or attorney involved.

RALPH F. VOSS, Associate Circuit Judge

Osage County Circuit Court

Linn, Mo.