Why I’m Running
I’m running to be DeKalb County’s next State Court Judge because I believe we need more people serving on the bench who have both the life experience and legal experience to enforce the law fairly. As the only candidate with both substantive civil and criminal legal experience, I am prepared for the job, and I am committed to serving the people of DeKalb County with distinction.
The State Court is where I have practiced almost my entire career, as both an Assistant Solicitor General prosecuting misdemeanors and as a civil litigator fighting on behalf of victims with catastrophic injuries. I have a passion for the State Court, which I like to call the “Court of Real Life and the Court of Quality of Life.” Georgia’s State Courts have jurisdiction over misdemeanors—things like traffic violations, DUIs, small drug offenses, and low-level violent crimes. The State Court also handles civil cases including personal injury, car wrecks and medical malpractice.
The fact is that almost every single one of us will find ourselves or a loved one in the State Court at some point. It could be that your child fell in with the wrong crowd and is facing charges for petty theft or drug possession. It could be that you ran a red light, late for work. You and your neighbor might have a property dispute. It could be that you were in a car wreck, and you have to file a lawsuit to be able to afford your medical care. These are everyday situations that we all face in some form or fashion, and it’s these situations that are the basis of the cases before the State Court.
It matters who is sitting on the bench and making determinations about our futures. I’m not a career prosecutor. I have represented individuals during the lowest moments of their lives, and most often, under tragic circumstances. I’ve prosecuted individuals who have done wrong, and I’ve recommended pre-trial diversion for others who just needed a second chance.
I know the difference between a defendant who is a menace to DeKalb and a defendant who really needs someone to believe in them. And I have the technical experience to ensure that every civil case moves through my courtroom quickly and ends with a just result.
My Commitment
This is my commitment to you and to every resident of DeKalb County: I will always treat every individual who comes into my courtroom—whether it’s a defendant, plaintiff, juror, or counsel—with dignity and respect. I will always enforce the law fairly, regardless of someone’s identity or circumstances. Above all else, I will uphold the rule of law to make DeKalb County a better place.
This election is about who has the experience to lead, and who you can trust to share your values when and if you appear in that courtroom. I’m running to be a trusted leader for everyday families in DeKalb, and I hope I can count on your support and assistance during this election cycle. Your vote in the primary on May 21, 2024 is vitally important to our community.