A SPECIAL REPORT: JUDGES

THOUSAND QUESTIONS: If you think Orange County’s judges aren’t earning their pay, here’s a set of numbers that may draw some empathy: Judges who preside over personal injury suits now face an average 1,122 cases--each. Judges on other civil cases each average 616. . . . Says Superior Court Judge Richard N. Parslow, from the thousand-plus group: “It’s manageable; but it’s labor-intensive. You have to learn to pat your head and rub your tummy at the same time.”

Local Lawsuits

Almost 19,000 separate civil actions were filed in county Superior Court through June. Short-term petitions: 33% Family law: 24% General lawsuits: 19% Personal injury (auto): 14% Probate: 6% Personal injury (other): 4%

Source: Superior Court Clerk’s office