As a Judge, Experience Matters
When many people think about the court system, they think first about criminal cases, but those cases make up only about a quarter to a third of the actual workload of the judges in this circuit. Civil cases – including real estate disputes, employment litigation, contract disputes, personal injury claims, will contests and other issues about estate matters – make up a large part of court's docket. So do abuse and neglect cases and juvenile matters.
Having practiced law for 27 years before taking the bench in 2014, I represented clients in all areas of the law – both in and out of court. I helped my clients understand their legal obligations and to conduct their affairs in a way that complied with the law, and I represented them in court when disputes arose. This experience gives me a stronger understanding of the law and its impact on real people, and it has equipped me to better deal with the wide variety of cases that come before me as a judge.
As a judge, I regularly see cases involving property rights, contracts, and business disputes, where a deep understanding of real estate and commercial law is crucial. Having advised clients and handled these types of matters for them, I also understand the real-world impact of legal proceedings on individuals and businesses.
Criminal cases are an important part of my job as a judge, and I give them the time and attention that they deserve. But my broad experience – both previously as a lawyer and for the last ten years as a judge – enables me to deal with the wide range of cases that come before the circuit court, fairly and in accordance with the law.