Backlog
How will you address the case backlog in your court to ensure timely resolution for all parties?
It is important that cases go to trial in a timely manner. There are victims and defendants that are waiting for justice to happen in their cases. I understand that it can be difficult to keep the attorneys on track towards a resolution of the case. But a Judge must keep both sides on track. Once all discovery has been submitted the Judge must make attorneys approach the bench and ask them the tough questions. Has an offer been made by the State? Do you accept the offer made by the State? If so, set the case for a plea. If not, does the Defense have a counteroffer? If both sides are at an impasse, then the case must be set for trial. There is no need for these cases to have endless resets.
Efficiency/accessibility
How will you ensure efficient and equitable resolution of matters that come before your court, and that all residents — regardless of their financial means — have meaningful access to legal resources?
Hearings and trials will move towards case completion in a timely manner. Whatever is brought before me will be heard and considered. All individuals will be treated fairly in my court. Second chances in a person’s life can always be considered regardless of their financial means. Jail overcrowding continues to be a problem. We need to make sure that there is plenty of room in our jails for violent offenders. Non-violent offenders who get the benefit of an alternative sentence should realize that jail is still a possibility if they do not fulfill the obligations of their alternative sentence. Alternative sentences should also address any problems that may contribute to a defendant reoffending (ex. Drug rehabilitation).
