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.
Linda Marie Dunson
I’ve received degrees in Psychology and Sociology. I learned about cultures, languages and social norms and how they impact how people think and interact with the world in which they live. As well, I learned about abnormalities and mental health. One experience that I think has been most beneficial to the development of skills needed to a be a good Judge, is my years as a hairstylist. I developed an ear to listen, a heart of compassion, ability to not be so judgmental, the ability to discern, and most of all I learned patience. As a licensed attorney, I often served families in crises whether assisting with a divorce or a child custody fight. As Presiding Judge of the 309th for 7 years, I continue to rely on the aforementioned qualities.
Unfortunately, one issue that I face in office is disrespect from those who think that I sit in a space that I am not qualified to sit in because of racial and/or gender bias. The second issue is the current social unrests impacts on families and children. As to the first issue, I plan to continue to educate myself on the current and changes in the laws that effect my judicial decisions and to always display a demeanor becoming to a Judge. As for the second issue, I plan to continue to give everyone the opportunity to be heard, show compassion, show respect and make impartial rulings based on the facts and the law. I plan to provide language assistance, self represented litigant legal resources and other tools, without giving legal advice.
