On Monday, June 24, 2024, the Nevada Commission on Judicial Discipline publicly reprimanded Jim Loveless, a justice of the peace in Humboldt County, for violating judicial conduct rules.

The case is entitled “In the Matter of Judge Jim Loveless,” with case number 88881.

The reprimand stemmed from events that occurred in December 2022 and January 2023. According to the stipulation signed by Loveless and the Commission, Loveless was intoxicated on two occasions while serving as the on-call justice of the peace and was contacted by law enforcement for search warrant requests.

In January 2022, Loveless was also arrested for driving under the influence in Indian Springs. He later pleaded guilty to the charge. The stipulation states that Loveless’ actions harmed his court and staff, interfered with his ability to perform his judicial duties, and affected law enforcement’s ability to carry out their responsibilities.

However, the stipulation notes some potential mitigating factors as well. Loveless took full responsibility for his actions and acknowledged his alcohol abuse. He has been seeking counseling from an alcohol counselor on a weekly basis. Loveless also held a meeting with his judicial staff where he apologized for his behavior. Additionally, he did not run for re-election, so he will be leaving his position as justice of the peace following his current term.

In the stipulation, Loveless admitted that his actions violated several provisions of Nevada’s Code of Judicial Conduct, including canons requiring judges to comply with the law and act in a manner that promotes public confidence in the independence and integrity of the judiciary.

Given the violations but with consideration for the mitigating factors, Loveless consented to a public reprimand. As part of the order, Loveless must continue alcohol counseling and comply with any recommendations from his counselor. He also committed to participating in a 30-day inpatient rehabilitation program through the Veterans Administration after leaving office.

By accepting the terms, Loveless waived his right to appeal the Commission’s decision. He understands the reprimand will be published on the Commission’s website and filed with the Nevada Supreme Court Clerk.

Judge Jim Loveless‘ courtroom is located at 50 W Fifth Street, Rooms 208-210, Winnemucca, NV 89445, and can be reached at 775-623-6377.

A copy of the original filing can be found here.