Jan. 1, 2002

Quick-Witted Judge Keeps Mood Lighter With Humor

LOS ANGELES - Ventura County Superior Court Judge Steven Hintz thinks that a new career might be out there waiting for him. After nearly 20 years as a judge, Hintz, 54, is almost able to retire from the bench. But he wouldn't draw a pension check until he's 60, so Hintz is considering a new career as a private judge handling civil disputes.