I am a debate coach, but please consider me more of a lay judge because I have limited experience.

Lincoln Douglas Debate

I tend to value truth over technique if both are equally matched (so long as no fundamental errors are made).

Please do not neglect your framework, as it is a fundamental part of LD debate.

I'm not a tabula rasa judge when it comes to your framework: I will use what I know about philosophy and logic to evaluate if your value and criterion are sound.

That said, I tend to evaluate all contentions, evidence, and/or observations from a place of non-judgement. So be sure to call out drops and/or any misinformation in your opponent's case or it will stand.

If two opponents are well-matched, I will rely on overall clash and/or voters to make my decision. Be sure to tell me what you believe the arguments boil down to and what you believe I should use to make my decision.

Ronald Carnes

I would consider myself a traditional-style LD judge. Argumentation on Value, Criterion, I will judge hard on those. The team that shows me the strongest arguments will get my vote. I also look at the best speaker—the one that gives me good eye contact, tone, etc.

For other events, the best speaker will typically get my vote as long as they follow the criteria for said event.

I did speech and debate all four years of high school and when to state. Judged for local meets UIL speech and debate. As well as at the district level for LD, exempt and poetry. 

I weigh the value of communication highly in the round. Clear speaking with an organized presentation of value/criterion and organization of attacks. Do not be rude to your opponent, but believe in what you are trying to argue. Speed without clear communication will not earn points with me.

I consider myself a tabula rasa because I am open to hearing most arguments and try to stay open-minded. I usually vote and weigh heavily based on traditional stock issues but I expect both sides to be very convincing persuasive speakers. Be polite and professional to each other, especially during cx. I will time flashing evidence. If you use a computer, please do not let it be distracting to your speaking.

I do not like speed. I feel gasping and spreading to the point of lacking proper communication leads to significant holes in my flow and lack of clash and resolution of important issues. I also time roadmaps as I feel debaters are abusing this and providing speeches instead of true roadmaps. I am also the official timekeeper. If you prefer to use a timer as well, please do not say "starting time now" as I am the one that officially starts it.