Magistrates are judges in limited jurisdiction courts. They hold the initial hearings in many types of serious criminal cases, and try criminal cases, including many first-time DUI/DWI and other misdemeanor cases which carry relatively less serious penalties. They also have jurisdiction over some types of civil cases (e.g., landlord/tenant and contracts) in which the amount sought is less than $10,000. Term: Four years; no term limits.
At 56, I've spent much of my adult life serving our communities. I worked 21 years in the District Attorney's Office, supporting the prosecutors and gaining first-hand experience with our justice system. I was then elected twice by the people of Union County to serve as County Clerk. I bring years of experience that I have gained in public service and the justice system.
I am now completing my first term as your magistrate judge. I understand the responsibilities of the bench. I respect the law, and understand the need to make fair and impartial decisions.
My experience represents an investment for this community and I'm very grateful for the years of support through your trust and votes.
In a small rural county, experience matters.
The challenges are not simply in deciding cases; it is doing so promptly, accurately and fairly all while dealing with access to justice, limited resources and the need to maintain public confidence.
One of the biggest challenges for me is serving our rural area where there are shortages of attorneys and legal resources. Magistrate courts routinely serve people without lawyers. I have to ensure that the courtroom remains accessible without becoming an advocate for either side. This creates a difficult balance while trying to make the proceedings understandable enough for a person to participate while remaining neutral and maintaining impartiality.
As a judge, my role is not to be an extension of law enforcement or the prosecution.
The court itself, is operating efficiently, because of the guidance, training, and resources provided. For me, the main obstacle in the resolution of cases, is not about court efficiency, but a result of the limited availability of legal counsel. Our state does not have enough prosecutors and public defenders for the volume of cases entering the system.
I'll continue looking for ways to make each attorney appearance more productive without compromising defendants' rights, my neutrality, or the quality of justice. I'll strive to move cases while making sure every party receives due process and understands what is happening.
The court as a whole, should help people understand the process without being an advocate for either party.
I understand the responsibility that comes along with being your magistrate judge. My decisions can have a profound effect on people's lives, freedom and future. I do not take this lightly. I will maintain independence and the authority needed to administer justice.
Being a judge requires confidence and humility. If I make a mistake, I will address it honestly and through appropriate legal procedure. I will never assume that I know everything. I will take every opportunity to participate in judicial education and study the law everyday.
I want every person who comes before me to know that I take their matter very seriously and that they will be treated with dignity and respect. My decision will be fair and based on the law.
