My initiatives.
As a candidate for Probate Judge, I am committed to improving the lives of individuals and families in our community. I have a vision for our justice system, and I am dedicated to making it a reality. As Probate Judge, my initiatives would include reinstating Sobriety Court for individuals struggling with alcoholism, ensuring our county’s children have access to the services and support that they need through neglect and abuse cases, and making the complex process of Probate Court more familiar, whether it be a trust case or a mental health case. I am confident that I possess the qualifications, experience, and skills necessary to be an effective Probate Judge.
The guiding principles that I intend to communicate to the public, and which will shape my approach if elected, are:
Fairness and Impartiality
At the heart of my role as a probate judge will be a commitment to fairness. I'll ensure that all parties in cases before me are treated equally and justly, regardless of their background or circumstances. This means making decisions based on law and facts, not personal biases.
Efficiency and Accessibility
I'm dedicated to improving the efficiency of the probate court and the other courts I will be involved in, making them more accessible to everyone. This includes streamlining processes, reducing unnecessary delays, and ensuring that the court system is understandable and navigable for all, irrespective of their legal knowledge.
Transparency and Accountability
I believe in an open court system where processes are transparent, fostering the publics trust in the judicial system. By being accountable for my decisions and explaining the reasons behind them, I aim to build public confidence in the integrity of the probate court.
Community Involvement
A probate judge should not operate in isolation from the community they serve. I plan to engage with community members, understand their concerns, and educate them about all the duties that the probate judge takes on in Benzie County. This will help demystify the legal system and make it more approachable.
Compassion and Understanding
The matter before me as probate judge often involve sensitive issues like the distribution of a loved one's assets, the care of vulnerable children. I'll approach each case with empathy, understanding the emotional complexities involved for those appearing in the courtroom.
What a Probate Judge does.
For more information, visit the Benzie County website. The Probate Judge position is nonpartisan.
My promise.
If elected, these principles will have a tangible impact on the public. Fairness and impartiality ensure that all individuals feel respected and heard in court. Transparency and accountability build trust in the legal system. Compassion ensures that individuals navigating difficult times are treated with the dignity they deserve. Efficiency makes the legal process smoother and less daunting, and community involvement ensures the public's voice is heard in the judicial process. These approaches are designed to create a more effective, approachable, and humane probate court that serves the needs of the community effectively.