My extensive family court expertise in high-conflict cases--particularly those involving domestic violence, addiction, and mental health elements--has earned me more judicial endorsements than any other candidate. We can do this. Ive rolled up my sleeves on expungement and road to restoration efforts. Chief judge Kirk Tabbey of Washtenaw County Court 14A is retiring at the end of the year, and four candidates are vying for his seat in the August primary. Loading. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (each updated 1/26/2023). YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. Each candidate was asked to outline their stances on a variety of public policy issues listed below. Ballotpedia features 395,432 encyclopedic articles written and curated by our professional staff of editors, writers, and researchers. By Bill Chappell , Victoria Hansen. Richelew: Our courts should work effectively for every single one of us. Whether the case is civil or criminal in nature, I am committed to understanding the facts and the law behind each decision. On. Send the note to: editor@ballotpedia.org. A candidate must be a qualified elector, a resident of the judicial circuit, a lawyer who has been licensed to practice law for at least five years, and under 70 years of age. [1], What's on my ballot? Alex Murdaugh could face life in prison if he's convicted for the double murders of his wife and son. Working as a line-prosecutor, I had little chance to make changes to address this issue. I am the only candidate that grew up and attended the school system within the 14A2 District Court-- I attended Perry School, Fletcher Elementary, West Middle School and Ypsilanti High School. Barr: My roots and ties to this community run deep and is one of many reasons why I am best candidate to represent this community. Ballotpedia regularly tests our sample ballot's accuracy by looking up addresses on both it and the official sample ballot and comparing the lookup results from both tools. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Barr could not be immediately reached for comment. If the matter is criminal, what is the living situation of the Defendant? Slay: After receiving my B.A. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. Barr defeated Fawn Armstrong of Saline. He joins fellow judges Cedric Simpson and Anna Frushour in serving all 14A District Court matters. This means listening to the parties and making sure they have an opportunity to share their side of the story; including ensuring that self-represented litigants are heard by the Court. } display: block; Information will be available on Day 1. Select an upcoming election date, if there is more than one coming up in your area. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. display: none; Building trust in our justice system is a priority. . If elected, I would be the only person of color on the Circuit Court Bench, an important perspective to help make our courts more representative of the communities they serve. In a process run by a county clerk, the candidates choose slips of paper from a box that say either "elected" or "not elected".[2]. He's seen here being escorted into the the Colleton County . We also provide race overviews if you want additional background information. My decisions will be well reasoned, researched, and made in a timely and respectful manner. I have handled divorces, felonies, business disputes, wrongful death, employment cases, and negligence. Van den Bergh: My goal is to further equal access to justice using a number of devices. In order to do so, we need data on what goes on in the system, and transparency and accountability about this data to the public. Peacekeeping, restorative justice, and other forms of alternative dispute can also be valuable tools to help parties find their own justice. A judge needs to have insight into the struggles facing people in our community and to have compassion and understanding for those struggles, especially when ordering bond or probation conditions. If there are not more than twice the amount of candidates than there are persons to be elected, the race will not appear on the primary election ballot, but only on the general election ballot. Each candidate was asked to outline their stances on a variety of public policy issues listed below. Michigan General Election Results for Washtenaw County Circuit, District Court Judges (22nd Circuit, 14B District) on Nov. 3, 2020 Decision 2020. Additionally, I have quasi-judicial experience. We must make the courts accessible to all, not only literally (including technological and virtual means) but by removing barriers to justice that make too many feel their voices wont be heard. My litigation background has also taught me that needlessly prolonged litigation is not an ideal way to solve problems. Feaster Attorney at Law, PLLC, Ive dedicated my career to serving citizens in need with integrity, civility, and equity. Elections in 2023 | First time offenders of all types come through the district court; many of which start with misdemeanor offenses or low-level felonies. Elections in 2023 | It influences public policy through education and advocacy. What is your general judicial philosophy? Jeff Blake. County and Local election results on this website go back to 1999. Interns wanted: Get paid to help ensure that every voter has unbiased election information. Like 89.1WEMUonFacebookand follow us onTwitter, Contact WEMU News at734.487.3363or email us atstudio@wemu.org, Serving Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County, MI, PublishedNovember 9, 2022 at 11:17 AM EST. Use my expertise in civil rights to identify and eliminate unnecessary hurdles and inequities faced by so many, in civil and criminal cases alike, and work to build trust in the legal system. Restoration and rehabilitation tools can bring critical help to people in need. I am currently the senior partner at Collis, Griffor & Hendra, PC in Ypsilanti. if(document.getElementsByClassName("reference").length==0) if(document.getElementById('Footnotes')!==null) document.getElementById('Footnotes').parentNode.style.display = 'none'; Ballotpedia features 395,432 encyclopedic articles written and curated by our professional staff of editors, writers, and researchers. Publication of candidate statements and opinions is solely in the interest of public service and should NOT be considered as an endorsement. All responses in the voter guide were submitted directly by the candidate and have not been edited by the League of Women Voters, except if a reply exceeded character limitations. We must be vigilant against bias, and streamline cases to make them less cumbersome. I have defended the City of Ypsilantis Human Rights Ordinance. I created the City of Ypsilantis Administrative Hearings Bureau. As to matters of law, I will maintain the highest standards of case and legislative review practices, as I have over my career. Specialty courts treat the person as a whole with therapy, treatment, and utilize community resources, and are an efficient and effective alternative to incarceration. Van den Bergh: Many family law cases involve mental health, addiction, and domestic violence issues. The State via AP, Pool. partnered with the League of Women Voters. display: none; I know from my experience, that coming to court can be an emotionally charged situation for many. Click here to contact us for media inquiries, and please donate here to support our continued expansion. Swartz plans to retire as his term expires in January 2021. width: 300px; I have a comprehensive career as a leading trial attorney and am prepared to decide cases across all areas of law - on day one. Skip to Main Content. Here are 8 big revelations from the Alex Murdaugh murder trial. Barr: Each case is unique and as a judge there are many, many considerations that need to be made to not only protect Defendants constitutional rights, but keep victims safe. I am especially proud to have been designated a Michigan Super Lawyer, reserved for the top 5% of attorneys, selected by peers and opposing counsel. Impartiality, fairness and compassion will be guiding principles in every decision I make. Barr is an assistant city attorney for Ypsilanti and private attorney for more than 22 years. I am also admitted to the Supreme Court of the United States. What in your education and experience make you the best qualified candidate for this position? I believe that listening is critical to being fair and compassionate, which helps to ensure that justice is served. I have been a practicing attorney for 26 years, 20 of them in Washtenaw County. Courtrooms look much as they did 100 years ago. The candidates running for the six-year judicial position are Marla Linderman Richelew, left, and Arianne Elizabeth Slay, right. State executives | I know that the court system doesnt work fairly for everyone and I want to change that. Ive heard cases on blight and enforced city ordinances designed to eliminate blight problems while simultaneously working with residents to make the city a cleaner, brighter and better place. Co-Chair of JFS Washtenaw Integrated Senior Experience (WISE). Expungement and Road to Restoration Volunteer. It is of the utmost importance that the citizens of this community be heard and get a fair treatment in my courtroom. Federal courts | Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. U.S. Congress | Collis: A judge must be independent and honorable when dispensing justice. I believe that people have more in common than we sometimes realize. See the Blue Angels soar at Thunder Over Michigan in Ypsilanti, Boy to remain with adoptive parents over birth father based on Michigan Supreme Court ruling, The Saline Twirlettes are finally heading to the world championships. "Washtenaw County judge announces early retirement," May 1, 2014; from Michigan State University, I worked in the Washtenaw Prosecutors Office, focusing on domestic violence and felony prosecution, and as a Deputy City Attorney, helping to lead Ann Arbors comprehensive law practice, supporting all areas of city services. My priorities are to work within the court system to (1) reduce a persons financial stressors by establishing task forces to assist with self-representation in civil cases; (2) return small claims cases to their roots by resolving them in as little as a day; (3) provide the use of technology to increase a persons access to their case by reducing common practical burdens such as transportation, child care, work issues, and more; and (4) ensure that the voices of victims are able to be heard without fear of reprisal, especially for our societys most vulnerable. Main article: Michigan intermediate appellate court elections, 2020 Judges with expiring terms This is a list of the justices who had to stand for nonpartisan election in 2020 in order to remain on the bench. . I will hold this position in the utmost respect and regard as it is a privilege to be able to serve the community in this capacity. text-decoration: none; The League never supports or opposes any candidates or political parties. In disputes that come before the court, it will be my job to help parties find that common ground. Candidates in this contest and votes received: Julia B. Owdziej (54.0%), Tracy Van den Bergh (45.4%), All Other Votes (0.6%), Total Votes Cast (0.0%), and Total Ballots Cast (0.0%). Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. and J.D. About the Honorable Carol Kuhnke. if(document.getElementsByClassName("reference").length==0) if(document.getElementById('Footnotes')!==null) document.getElementById('Footnotes').parentNode.style.display = 'none'; What's on my ballot? This includes interpreting the Constitution as it was intended. Her practice areas include general civil, contracts, transactional, criminal and labor law. By utilizing my MSW to supervise social work interns, clients received additional support services which made it easier, particularly for those with mental health needs, to resolve their legal problems. How to run for office | There are big picture disparities across our county that should, at the very least, be understood and potentially considered when overseeing cases because the judicial system is intended to benefit both the litigant and the public fairly. Feaster: There are numerous factors I consider before deciding case such as: Relative circumstances of the defendant, Damage to the victim or plaintiff Best interest of community. Washtenaw County, Michigan (Judicial) Ballotpedia provides comprehensive coverage of the 100 largest cities in America by population as well as mayoral, city council, and district attorney election coverage in state capitals outside of the 100 largest cities. What factors do you bring to bear in deciding a case? Michigan's 14A District Court is located in Washtenaw County and serves all cities within county limits except for Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti Township. Read more Washtenaw County election coverage here. ), Questions? } Loading Do Not . The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. Slay: The hallmark of a good judge is the ability to decide every case which comes before them with the individualized attention each community member deserves. Washtenaw County. I am the only candidate who has prosecuted, defended and practiced both sides of civil cases in the 14A2 District Court. As your Circuit Judge I will: Devote the time and effort to ensure every person coming into my courtroom knows their individual circumstances count. Slay is currently a Deputy Ann Arbor City Attorney. U.S. President | I am currently assigned to Circuit Court wherein I handle felony criminal docket. Published March 1, 2023 at 3:20 PM EST. I have argued well over a dozen cases before the Michigan Court of Appeals and MI Supreme Court, including establishing new law in a family law decision. Cities | 2. I am counsel for many labor unions, from skilled trades to professional educators. I obtained my Bachelors Degree in history and political science from the University of Michigan, and my law degree from Cooley Law School. Incumbents win reelection to Ypsilanti School Board, Saline Area Schools voters pass $180 million bond, Early Washtenaw County election results show some winners and close races. Collis: Everyone who comes before this District Court deserves to have an experienced and well-versed judge presiding over their concerns. | Armstrong: I have my Juris Doctorate from Thomas M. Cooley Law School and Bachelors of Science degree from Northern Michigan University. State legislature | I am the only candidate endorsed by the outgoing Judge, Kirk Tabbey, who knows the most about the 14A2 District Court and the needs of the community. I have assisted victims of domestic violence; people facing foreclosures, evictions, and utility shutoffs; first offenders seeking a second chance; and victims of discrimination at school and work. Prior to his appointment, Connors presided as a judge for the Fifteenth . I will lend my voice and experience to these innovation efforts. I am most thankful for helping thousands, throughout my career, to put their legal problems behind them with some measure of justice. If elected, I would work with my colleagues on the circuit court bench to implement specialty courts and expand services available to those involved in the court system. For instance, it is important for a court to start on time, keep waiting to a minimum and produce fair, impartial decisions. As judge, I would have more compassion for people struggling to pay fines and seek to waive fines or order community service in lieu of fines. I will look at each case individually. Skyline PTSO President. This will not happen overnight, it will not be easy, and it will certainly take multiple changes to our laws and practices to allow it to take place. Richelew: Ill consider all factors needed to do justice while serving all of the people of Washtenaw. This opens communication about procedural and community issues so everyone involved in these important roles can work together in a collaborative way, the community is best protected and their concerns be heard. .sample-ballot-mobile-promo, .sample-ballot-mobile-promo a, .sample-ballot-mobile-promo a:hover { Feaster: My main goal is to reduce the publics reliance on the criminal court system, by reducing recidivism. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Thus, district court has an opportunity to redirect legal newcomers who are found guilty to rehabilitation programs or other supportive services. Since 1999, I have served as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney. She was appointed by the Supreme Court to be the Chief Judge of the Washtenaw County Trial Court effective January 1, 2019. Represent a group of Bipartisan Legislators protecting the right to home health care for the traumatically injured. WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI Two Washtenaw County attorneys are vying for a chance to be the next Washtenaw County Trial Court judge in the upcoming general election in November. I was a struggling single mother for years, and I understand what its like to live paycheck to paycheck. A searchable database of historical election information, all from official source documents. 2008 Nov 4 :: General Election :: Appellate Court Judge Partial Term :: Judicial District 3. . Reiser: My education provided several opportunities to gain experience both in the court system and providing for others. The elections for this court are nonpartisan contested elections. People here are also concerned about gun violence and drugs, which needs to be taken seriously to ensure that people feel safe. } I will use my experience as a seasoned litigator and certified mediator to help good people make their own peace, and move on with new resolve and even hope. Ill work hard to get all of the facts and ascertain the law in every case. What in your education and experience makes you the best qualified candidate for this position? The purpose of this guide is to give general, nonpartisan information about what will be on the ballot and who the candidates are in nonpartisan races (judges and school boards). View the list of candidates that will be on your ballot. Armstrong: The 14A District Court Judge elected here would most likely be assigned to 14A-2 District Court, which is in Ypsilanti, MI. Fawn Armstrong and Karl Barr were the top two vote-getters in the non-partisan primary Tuesday, meaning they will run-off against one another in the general election. Roumel: There is a science and art to deciding cases. I have very strong ethics and I would not prejudge any case. | I practiced in two civil law firms before becoming an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Washtenaw County, where I have been for almost ten years. Often the victims of crime are poor, suffer from drug addiction, have some type of mental illness, suffer from past trauma or have a disability. Great judges work hard, inside and outside of the courtroom, driven by commitment and compassion. Judge Washington is the Chief Judge of the 14B District Court and presides over Landlord-Tenant, Criminal, and General Civil matters, while managing the Recovery and Human Trafficking Court and a Domestic Violence specialty docket. Statewide election results on this website go back to 1980. I will do my utmost to conduct myself and the court in a manner that will create that trust and respect. The top two vote-getters will go on to compete in the November general election. Slay defeated Marla Linderman Richelew of Ann Arbor. I will effectively utilize mediation in cases that come before me in family court. Publication of candidate statements and opinions is solely in the interest of public service and should NOT be considered as an endorsement. Judges of the Michigan District Courts are each elected to six-year terms. What are your goals should you be elected and how will you work to accomplish them? The Circuit Court is a court of equity and I know how important that is. 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