Judicial Philosophy
It is an honor to serve the people of Wood County as a Judge on the Wood County Circuit Court.
Judges help strengthen communities and make them safer. Judges are protectors of constitutional rights and the guardians of constitutional liberties. Judges must ensure that government power is exercised within legal bounds. By embodying integrity, competence, fairness, commitment to the rule of law, and respect for all who come before them, judges uphold public confidence in the judicial system.
As one of four Judges on the Circuit Court, I handle a wide variety of cases. Circuit Courts are busy places with a high volume of cases including homicide, sexual assault, OWI, truancy, divorce and child placement, probate, evictions, juvenile cases, and business disputes.
Each case before me is critically important to the community, to the criminal justice system, and to the individuals involved. I make decisions based solely on the law and the facts presented, without bias, prejudice, or outside influence. I am impartial. I am tough and fair.
Judges must also be connected to our local communities. We are viewed as leaders in the legal community and as the public face of the justice system. As a Judge, I am committed to serving the people of Wood County with integrity, compassion, professionalism, humility and a dedication to justice.
Over the course of my legal career, I have had the opportunity to observe and appear in front of many judges. All good judges share traits in common. They know the law. They maintain a professional courtroom environment where respect is extended to all participants, regardless of status. They work hard and respect due process and fairness. They ensure that all parties receive a fair opportunity to be heard and that proceedings are conducted with respect for legal rights and procedures.
Those are the standards I hold myself to each and every day and that is my commitment to you, the people I serve. I am honored by your trust and confidence.