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MARTINSVILLE CITY Commonwealth's Attorney

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    Patrick A. Flinn
    (Ind)

  • Candidate picture

    Lynda S. Hartsell
    (Ind)

Biographical Information

What are the greatest challenges that you hope to manage if you are elected?

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for this elected position?

What do you like most about where you live?

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Campaign Day Time Phone 2766949183
Campaign Email lyndaforca@gmail.com
education JD from University of Richmond School of Law
experience 2.5 years prosecuting in Virginia, 4 plus years as criminal defense attorney, guardian ad litem, and DSS agency attorney
One of the greatest challenges is restoring public confidence in how cases are handled. Our community deserves an office that is prepared, responsive, and fair to both victims and defendants. I will strengthen coordination with law enforcement, ensure cases are ready for court, and make sure victims’ voices are heard. Another challenge is balancing accountability with fairness. With experience as both prosecutor and defense attorney, I will pursue justice that is firm, consistent, and humane. Martinsville also faces drug and violent crime concerns, which require strong prosecution of serious offenders and partnerships that reduce recidivism.
I am the best candidate because I bring broad experience from every side of the courtroom. I have served as a prosecutor, defense attorney, and legal counsel for the Department of Social Services. That background gives me the perspective to balance firm prosecution of serious crime with fairness and consistency in every case. I have tried complex cases and know how to prepare them fully so victims’ voices are heard and justice is done. Martinsville deserves a Commonwealth’s Attorney who is experienced, present, and committed to restoring confidence in the system and building stronger partnerships across our community.
What I love most about Martinsville is the people. We have such a wonderful variety of neighbors who are friendly, welcoming, and community-minded. Living here means enjoying the closeness of a small town while also being surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At the same time, we have easy access to Roanoke and Greensboro when we need the resources of a larger city. Martinsville offers the best of both worlds — a close-knit community in a beautiful setting. My commitment to serve comes from wanting to give back to the place and people that mean so much to me.