To serve on this court, a judge must be a qualified elector of the district, licensed to practice law in the state, under the age of 70, and have five years of experience practicing law. I will follow those factors and rules when deciding cases that come before me. My training and experience with citizens, law enforcement, and various community agencies, such as SafeHouse Center and Community Mental Health, has fostered my inherent sense of justice and fairness. Transparency - We must correct the wrongs of past descrimination in our courts. I will also recognize that we are all human beings and sometimes we don't make the best choices, sometimes people with good intentions make bad choices and I will recognize that and take that into account when deciding cases. We need to have judges who will fight the status quo. Where the office names are linked, you can click to learn more about the race in general. Expungement and Road to Restoration Volunteer. Publication of candidate statements and opinions is solely in the interest of public service and should NOT be considered as an endorsement. Richelew: Ill consider all factors needed to do justice while serving all of the people of Washtenaw. Richelew: Our courts should work effectively for every single one of us. Cities | We also provide race overviews if you want additional background information. Read more Washtenaw County election coverage here. Barr is an assistant city attorney for Ypsilanti and private attorney for more than 22 years. We should question our methods, and if they dont make sense, work together for reform. I also have a decade of experience in psychology, crisis intervention, and education to better serve clients who have suffered trauma. My decisions will be well reasoned, researched, and made in a timely and respectful manner. I will tailor sentences to each persons needs, be an active participate in probation review hearings (listen, foster hope), finding new programs within the community for probationers, and establishing a mentorship program for young adult probationers. All responses in the voter guide were submitted directly by the candidate and have not been edited by the League of Women Voters, except if a reply exceeded character limitations. border: none !important; WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Two Washtenaw County attorneys are vying for a chance to be the next Washtenaw County Trial Court judge in the upcoming general election in November The. Being a Judge is an amazing opportunity to make a difference in peoples lives, and sometimes it just takes one person to believe in you for you to believe in yourself. I practiced in two civil law firms before becoming an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Washtenaw County, where I have been for almost ten years. I resigned in 2017 to try to make a change. Swartz plans to retire as his term expires in January 2021. All responses in the voter guide were submitted directly by the candidate and have not been edited by the League of Women Voters, except for a necessary cut if a reply exceeded character limitations. .mobile-app-cta { Elections in 2023 | YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. [4], If two or more candidates in a race receive the same number of votes, the election is to be decided by lot. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (each updated 1/26/2023). | How to run for office | My greatest pride is giving these victims a voice. Interns wanted: Get paid to help ensure that every voter has unbiased election information. I will be there to serve you. This means that, for offices within our coverage scope, a person's sample ballot results should include every election that will appear on their actual ballot. Janet Dillon received 2994 votes, Dean Girbach 2904 votes, and Christen Mitchell 2711 votes, with 53 write-ins. Published March 1, 2023 at 3:20 PM EST. Public policy. Related: Election results for the Nov. 8 general election in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County. Tribal elections are not included. Roumel: There is a science and art to deciding cases. Federal courts | Barr: My roots and ties to this community run deep and is one of many reasons why I am best candidate to represent this community. Ballotpedia includes comprehensive election information for the largest 100 cities by population, as well as all state legislative, statewide, and congressional races across the nation. I bring expertise in the diverse areas of law decided by the Circuit Court and understanding in how the civil, criminal, business, family, juvenile, and probate dockets are all intertwined. Cities | We must be vigilant against bias, and streamline cases to make them less cumbersome. In the nonpartisan primary, the two candidates who receive the greatest number of votes advance to the general election. I will aim to foster justice and healing within the purview of the law, and build trust in our justice system from all members of our community, no matter their race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. During my time spent assigned to District Court, 14A-2 was where I spent the majority of my time. The voter guide can be accessed at vote411.org. Barr could not be immediately reached for comment. background: grey; In a process run by a county clerk, the candidates choose slips of paper from a box that say either "elected" or "not elected".[5]. School districts | Ballot measures, Who represents me? The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. Ballotpedia includes comprehensive election information for the largest 100 cities by population, as well as all state legislative, statewide, and congressional races across the nation. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Feaster: The system has failed the community in many ways from jury diversity to sentencing. I am a frequent guest lecturer from elementary through law school. If elected, I would be the only person of color on the Circuit Court Bench, an important perspective to help make our courts more representative of the communities they serve. 2008 Nov 4 :: General Election :: Appellate Court Judge Partial Term :: Judicial District 3. . I started our Countys first ever Criminal Diversion Program, moving people out of the system by helping them address the root causes of justice involvement. Biography. We must make the courts accessible to all, not only literally (including technological and virtual means) but by removing barriers to justice that make too many feel their voices wont be heard. View the list of candidates that will be on your ballot. And, as always, a judge should be patient and courteous to litigants, jurors, witnesses, lawyers and any others involved in matters before them. I want people to feel served, not simply judged. . She was appointed by the Supreme Court to be the Chief Judge of the Washtenaw County Trial Court effective January 1, 2019. I also believe in Equitable Justice for All--that everyone is treated fairly and equally under the law, everyone is held accountable to the same laws, there are clear and fair processes for enforcing laws, there is an independent judiciary, and human rights are guaranteed for all. I will do my utmost to conduct myself and the court in a manner that will create that trust and respect. We must alleviate time (and, consequently financial) stressors for participants while at the same time decreasing the publics tax burden by enacting a shorter and better managed judicial calendar. As to matters of fact, I will diligently hear and review all admissible information and reserve judgment according to the standards set forth in the law. The United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan has jurisdiction in Washtenaw County. Make your donation to WEMU todayto keep your community NPR station thriving. I am especially proud to have been designated a Michigan Super Lawyer, reserved for the top 5% of attorneys, selected by peers and opposing counsel. The current jury system disenfranchises low-income citizens, the elderly, and those who are not technologically savvy. State executives | I am the only candidate that has worked in and served the 14A2 Community for more than 20 years--I have cleaned up over a dozen nuisance properties in the City of Ypsilanti. They are competing for an open spot on the bench created by Judge Archie Browns retirement. Courts are too often a barrier to justice for people of color, those with mental health issues, and litigants without means. MLive.com File Photo.MLive.com File Photo. Thus, district court has an opportunity to redirect legal newcomers who are found guilty to rehabilitation programs or other supportive services. Collis: The priority issues facing this court primarily involve the length of time it takes for cases to be resolved and its lack of specialty courts, which would benefit participants and would also alleviate the case load on the judiciary. Justices could choose not to stand for election. If there are not more than twice the amount of candidates than there are persons to be elected, the race will not appear on the primary election ballot, but only on the general election ballot. The courts must be part of the conversation about new ways of doing things. For more information about me, please go to www.marlaforjudge.org. Appeals from the Eastern District go to the United States Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit. Van den Bergh: Consistent with the Michigan Supreme Court initiative to develop family law expertise on the bench, the new Washtenaw County Circuit Court judge will handle a domestic docket. What are the priority issues facing this court, and how would you address them if elected? Great judges work hard, inside and outside of the courtroom, driven by commitment and compassion. View 14B District Court Proceedings: Judge Erane C. Washington Search 14B District Court 14B District Court Past President of Women Lawyers Association of Michigan and Washtenaw (WLAM). I wrote the guide on how to reopen safely and helped the Michigan YMCAs reopen (pro bono). #contentwrapper { The Judge is the protector of a persons constitutional rights. My campaign slogan is A Voice for Justice. But Im not talking about myself. text-align: center; I believe that people have more in common than we sometimes realize. Helped 1000+ attorneys, small businesses and non-profits survive COVID. First time offenders of all types come through the district court; many of which start with misdemeanor offenses or low-level felonies. As we discuss police reform, we must also reimagine our judicial system. Our courts must demonstrate this not only through our actions, but by a relentless focus on transparency so that the people we serve have confidence in what we do. U.S. President | Two are in private practice in Ypsilanti, and two work for the county. I will listen to both sides and give them an opportunity to be heard. The seat covers all district court matters for Washtenaw County except for the city of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti Township. Washtenaw County, Michigan (Judicial) Ballotpedia provides comprehensive coverage of the 100 largest cities in America by population as well as mayoral, city council, and district attorney election coverage in state capitals outside of the 100 largest cities. Main article: Michigan intermediate appellate court elections, 2020 Judges with expiring terms This is a list of the justices who had to stand for nonpartisan election in 2020 in order to remain on the bench. We can do this. My promise to you is that I will listen attentively, consider thoughtfully, and make ethical decisions for every case that comes into my courtroom. As an MSW, I am qualified to supervise social work interns who can provide referrals and supportive services at no cost. I believe it is vital that we connect individuals with social safety net services, address the root causes of interactions with the court systems and support the rights of our victims of crime. Judge Julia B. Owdziej was appointed Probate Judge on June 3, 2014 and was elected by the Washtenaw County voters in November of 2014 and 2020. I have very strong ethics and I would not prejudge any case. padding: 5px 10px 5px 10px; display: block; I will make the courtroom process less stressful, knowing that the people who appear before me may be going through trauma. My unique background has trained me to navigate the unique familial and interpersonal issues involved in family law cases, and will be critical in allowing me to reach the most just legal decision possible. The League never supports or opposes any candidates or political parties. To learn more about judicial selection in Michigan, click here. Additionally, I have quasi-judicial experience. Restoration and rehabilitation tools can bring critical help to people in need. [3] The elections for this court are nonpartisan contested elections. You can unsubscribe at any time and we will never share your information. Every defendant has the right to a jury of their peers, which means that a jury needs to reflect the make-up of the community. Since 1999, I have served as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney. Whether the case is civil or criminal in nature, I am committed to understanding the facts and the law behind each decision. Download the mobile app to save your choices. Feaster: As a Washtenaw County Public Defender and the Founder of T.W. On a daily basis, I evaluate the facts of cases, apply the law, and make judgments on how to proceed. When we acknowledge that the Constitution includes broad themes that were meant to grow with an evolving society, we provide the judicial branch an opportunity to effect real change and better protect the weakest members of society. A searchable database of historical election information, all from official source documents. Judge Carol Kuhnke was elected by the voters of Washtenaw County in 2012 and took the bench on January 1, 2013. Slay defeated Marla Linderman Richelew of Ann Arbor. She advances to the November ballot and there is no Democratic opposition. The top two vote-getters will go on to compete in the November general election. MLive Media Group has partnered with the League of Women Voters of Michigan to provide candidate information and other voting resources to readers ahead of 2020 elections. Judges should be caring and invested in the lives of not just the people that come before the Court, but also the people of their community. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (each updated 1/26/2023). To see complete election results from all statewide races and from other parts of Michigan, click here. I have worked in the prosecutors office, as a judicial clerk, as a criminal defense attorney and currently as a public defender. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (each updated 1/26/2023). I have published numerous articles, on first offenders and expungement, immigrant rights, and seeking damages in family law cases. I have argued well over a dozen cases before the Michigan Court of Appeals and MI Supreme Court, including establishing new law in a family law decision. The purpose of this guide is to give general, nonpartisan information about what will be on the ballot and who the candidates are in nonpartisan races (judges and school boards). Based on my experience working with domestic violence and sexual assault victims, I will also be able to recognize that some cases will not be appropriate for mediation due to underlying power and control issues. All rights reserved (About Us). }. In 2021, the program was expanded to help persons with mental health diagnoses, substance abuse disorders, lack of housing, and other needs. In general, the circuit court handles all civil cases with claims of more than $25,000 and all felony criminal cases. I will be ethical and honest. (Click here to read about the Eight Quality Benchmarks for a Sample Ballot Lookup Tool. Each candidate was asked to outline their stances on a variety of public policy issues listed below. Michigan's 14A District Court is located in Washtenaw County and serves all cities within county limits except for Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti Township. The two candidates who receive the most votes during the August primary will move on to the November general election ballot. Richelew: Judges do not get to pick the issues they confront. The people of Washtenaw County are served by the Michigan Third District Court of Appeals, a circuit court, district court, and probate court. Van den Bergh: Depending on the legal issue, the law requires judges to consider certain factors before deciding a case. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Ballotpedia provides comprehensive coverage of the 100 largest cities in America by population as well as mayoral, city council, and district attorney election coverage in state capitals outside of the 100 largest cities. It influences public policy through education and advocacy. The Circuit Court is a court of equity and I know how important that is. I know from my experience, that coming to court can be an emotionally charged situation for many. The law should not act in a vacuum without consideration for equity and compassion, even when the law requires punishment. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. This county is outside of that coverage scope and does not receive scheduled updates. In addition, my staff will be trauma informed and trained. WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI Two Washtenaw County attorneys are vying for a chance to be the next Washtenaw County Trial Court judge in the upcoming general election in November. He's seen here being escorted into the the Colleton County . Arianne Elizabeth Slay was elected to become the Ann Arbor Circuit Court Judge, receiving 70.6% of the vote, with Marla Linderman Richelew receiving 28.91% of the vote. Honorable Patrick J. Conlin This means taking an active, though impartial role in leveling imbalances of power. They have the right to an attorney, and the right to remain silent. Federal courts | The 22nd Circuit Court is the main trial court for the residents of Washtenaw County, handling civil, criminal, and family court matters. Learn more Explore the Data Ill work hard to get all of the facts and ascertain the law in every case. I am currently the senior partner at Collis, Griffor & Hendra, PC in Ypsilanti. Justice delayed by COVID is still justice denied. The common thread in these cases is that they require a judge who can compassionately manage families and individuals in crisis while still remaining objective and impartial. Because when people have a problem, they need a voice. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. You can contact your state or local election administrator for an official sample ballot. As a senior litigator for the MI Attorney Generals office, I have handled multiple complex cases, ranging from childrens rights to constitutional claims. Fawn Armstrong and Karl Barr were the top two vote-getters in the non-partisan primary Tuesday, meaning they will run-off against one another in the general election. } In disputes that come before the court, it will be my job to help parties find that common ground. [1], If two or more candidates in a race receive the same number of votes, the election is to be decided by lot. I will expand the use of Specialty Court programs that focus on rehabilitation, community support and reduction of recidivism. 2022 Election Results: Washtenaw County Judicial Races By David Fair Published November 9, 2022 at 11:17 AM EST Arianne Elizabeth Slay of Ypsilanti won election to a six-year term in 22 nd District Circuit Court with nearly 71-percent of the vote. I believe in rehabilitation, restoration, and protection, and that resolutions that incorporate these principles provide for better dispositions over time. Furthermore, diversity in representation of lawyers, judges, and other officials helps to build trust. /. We can partner with universities to study outcomes, and share those results publicly. The following is a little nonpartisan voter guide that I compiled, based on the ballot for Ann Arbor. I have won appeals in pregnancy and disability discrimination, employment retaliation, unemployment compensation, landlord-tenant, criminal defense, and police misconduct. Reiser: My education provided several opportunities to gain experience both in the court system and providing for others. I am licensed in Michigan, New York and Illinois, as well as the US District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan, the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals, and the US Tax Court. What are your goals should you be elected and how will you work to accomplish them? As a judge, I will be respectful of all litigants that come before me. If elected, she will be the only woman of color on the Washtenaw County Circuit Court Bench. what is your general judicial philosophy? Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Statewide election results on this website go back to 1980. This experience will transfer to the bench and makes me the most qualified candidate. Roumel: Courts cannot decide cases in isolation. I will do that by trying to be a different kind of judge. Collis: Its important to me that those who find themselves in court receive fair, compassionate, and equitable treatment. Van den Bergh: I believe that the U.S. Constitution is a living document and I believe in equal access to justice. Feaster: There are numerous factors I consider before deciding case such as: Relative circumstances of the defendant, Damage to the victim or plaintiff Best interest of community. Public policy. Slay: After receiving my B.A. At the same time, we cannot turn a blind eye to the multitude of systemic injustices found within our societies - both local to Washtenaw County and nationwide. Compiled, based on the Washtenaw County Circuit court bench address them if?... Of T.W you be elected and how would you address them if elected, she will my! In Washtenaw County and serves all cities within County limits except for Ann Arbor was appointed by voters... A vacuum without consideration for equity and compassion, even when the law should not in. 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