Current Profession
Attorney/Judge
I have been a trial attorney for more than 30 years; the last 10 of which I have practiced probate law before the Orphan's Court. Last year I was appointed to fill the seat of Jack Turney on the Court and would very much like to retain that seat.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Prior to being appointed as Judge of Orphans court five years ago I had served as a law enforcement officer for thirty years in this county. Through that experience I learned to effectively communicate with individuals who were going through traumatic experiences. The death of a loved one and the ensuing execution of their estate can sometime be very traumatic. Through my previous experience I am able to exercise both compassion and firmness to guide these individuals through this experience
My main priority is to make sure that every individual who come before the Orphan's court has the opportunity to be heard. Secondarily and just as important is that every individual be treated fairly, impartially and with respect no matter who they are or are not. My desire is to show the love and compassion of Christ to those who may have never seen it anywhere else.
The greatest challenge we face today is the lack of experience and knowledge that is needed to effectively administer estates. Most individuals have no idea of the duties of a Personal Representative. The paperwork that needs completed as well as deadlines that have to be met with inventories and accountings, The Register of Wills Office conducts annual seminars on this matter to educate the public. Her staff works diligently with the public to help them as much as they can.
First and foremost, I want you to know that I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and have practice His Golden Rule in my associations and dealing with people.
Over the past 70 some years, I have helped 1000's of people through their struggles of life. Having served as a past county commissioner, and an executor of an estate, I am familiar with how the court works, and worked with Rita Watson in settling the estate of the neighbor that I had cared for.
My priorities first and foremost is for all involved to be friends after the estate is settled. And to fulfil the obligations of the Orphans Court by seeing that the desires and the will of the deceased person is carried out as stated in their will.
I have seen, over the years, of families that had worked together and stuck by each other through the thick and thin to be non communicative once the will is settled.
The job of the court is to see that each family member receives what they deserve.
Current Profession
Retired
I have had the pleasure of serving on the Orphan’s Court in Garrett County for over two years.I have attended many required classes, required by the State of Maryland, in Annapolis and online.
First, following the law!
Second, to be fair and kind to all who come before our court.
Working with families that don’t have any or don’t have proper wills and sadly families that have conflict with one another.
