Qualifications: What training, experience and characteristics qualify you for this position?
ISSUES: What are the two (2) most pressing issues that you will face in the office that you seek? Describe your specific plans/ideas for addressing these issues.
Melissa Marie Morris
I bring over 16 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney, where I handled serious felony cases, safeguarded constitutional rights, and worked directly with individuals and families affected by crime. That experience, grounded in my legal education and decades in courtrooms, gave me a deep understanding of what promotes both accountability and rehabilitation. As a Criminal Court Judge, I apply that perspective from the bench—holding people responsible while supporting evidence-based alternatives, treatment, and services that reduce recidivism, strengthen public safety, and promote lasting justice.
1. Reducing Court Backlogs While Preserving Fairness
When I took office, I inherited a docket of more than 2,100 cases. Through disciplined case management and collaboration, I reduced that number to fewer than 900 in my first term—improving efficiency, timely justice, and confidence in the court system.
2. Addressing Substance Use Through Smart, Cost-Effective Solutions
I am actively addressing substance use by implementing pilot programs that pair participants with peer counselors and treatment support. These programs are fully grant-funded, provided at no cost to the county, and focused on accountability, recovery, and reducing repeat involvement in the justice system.
When I took office, I inherited a docket of more than 2,100 cases. Through disciplined case management and collaboration, I reduced that number to fewer than 900 in my first term—improving efficiency, timely justice, and confidence in the court system.
2. Addressing Substance Use Through Smart, Cost-Effective Solutions
I am actively addressing substance use by implementing pilot programs that pair participants with peer counselors and treatment support. These programs are fully grant-funded, provided at no cost to the county, and focused on accountability, recovery, and reducing repeat involvement in the justice system.
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