Two judge candidates leave race

Two candidates in separate judicial races pulled out of the 2008 election, paving the way for a sitting district judge and Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman's son to retain or take seats on the bench.

Michael Root, who was the sole challenger to District Judge Douglas Herndon, pulled out of the race for Department 3. Root did not return several phone calls seeking comment.

Herndon was appointed to Department 3 by then-Gov. Kenny Guinn in January 2005.

Before becoming a judge, Herndon was the chief deputy district attorney in charge of the special victim's unit. He specialized in prosecuting child abuse homicides and sexual abuse cases.

"I was obviously very pleased (to hear that Root withdrew)," Herndon said. "It's certainly a weight off my shoulders. I can now continue with my job and not worry about all that comes with an election season."

Mark Karris, who was running against attorney Eric Goodman for a newly created Las Vegas Justice of the Peace position, also withdrew his candidacy.

Karris was Goodman's only opponent for Department 11.

Karris declined to comment on why he is pulling out of the race.

Goodman, who specializes in criminal defense, is a former partner of the Nevada firm Goodman, Brown and Presrirut.

A dozen incumbent district judges out of 25 haven't drawn challengers. A total of 95 candidates are running for more than 40 judgeships in District Court, Family Court and justice courts.