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.
Melanie Miles
I am a board-certified family law attorney with more than 20 years of legal experience handling cases that regularly come before Justice of the Peace courts, including landlord-tenant disputes, small claims, traffic matters, and Class C misdemeanors. I have tried over 200 cases to the bench and/or jury-trials, including in JP courts.
In addition to my legal background, I have successfully managed a law practice for two decades, giving me the administrative and leadership skills needed to run an efficient court. I am known for being fair, prepared, and respectful, and I bring a calm, patient demeanor to resolving disputes involving self-represented litigants.
In addition to my legal background, I have successfully managed a law practice for two decades, giving me the administrative and leadership skills needed to run an efficient court. I am known for being fair, prepared, and respectful, and I bring a calm, patient demeanor to resolving disputes involving self-represented litigants.
The first pressing issue is lack of fairness and dignity in court proceedings. Many litigants feel rushed, confused, or disrespected. I will address this by setting clear expectations for respectful courtroom conduct, ensuring people are heard, explaining procedures in plain language, and managing dockets so cases are not treated like an assembly line. The second issue is limited access to justice and resources, especially in eviction cases. I will implement best practices used in other JP courts, including partnerships with legal aid and housing assistance providers, clearer written guidance for self-represented litigants, and improved scheduling, including monthly Saturday court, to make the court more accessible.
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