I was recently pointed to an interesting site called Lois Law, which provides detailed profiles and Zagat-type reviews of every judge in the Federal Appelate Court system. Here's what lawyers had to say about John Roberts (long before the recent hubbub):

"He is off to a great start. He is the best appellate lawyer of his generation." "He is really, really smart. He has a very good reputation. He will be a great judge." "He is certainly as smart as they come. He is as experienced in appellate litigation as any judge in the country. He had a distinguished career in appellate litigation. He really stands out as a true appellate advocate." "He will be a fine judge." "He is polite—even quiet. He is very respectful." "He expects his questions to be answered. He follows up on them if they are not answered." "He is conservative." "He is very conservative. But whether that translates into his opinions, it is too soon to say." "His writing often will have [sic] literary allusions. He refers to sources that you usually don't find. I really look forward to reading his opinions."

You know what? So will I.