Judges, Attorneys and Courts- You never know you need them until you do

This past year has been terrible.  I’ve had a death in the family of an Aunt, who also happened to be my best friend, general partner in crime, and my closest family member in a mostly dysfunctional family.   She died a week before executing her will, and although there is written and verbal confirmation that “she just needed to feel well enough to drive there and sign it”, this has created a nasty legal battle between people who felt they deserved more, against those who want to follow through on her wishes that she wrote down and gave to her attorney.  

Personally, I’m leading the charge on the latter.  Her brother (a.k.a. ‘my Dad’) is leading the charge of the former.  Daughter against Dad, it’s a battle for the books which could be a Hollywood movie, except it playing out in my real life and it’s just plain crappy.

In the process of managing my own grief and emotions throughout this, I’ve been trying to figure out personally how I still fit into my work, my community, and participate in things that can help to make me feel better.  So, I was asked to attend a gathering last night to support a candidate for a newly created circuit court Judge for family and probate specifically.

My own experience in the courtroom have been fraught with emotions and distress.  My Judge (in Michigan), is fortunately experienced and ran a great law practice before elected.  She’s direct, fair, and knows the law and the practical implementation of what should be done.  I hate going to court, but I am so thankful to have a judicial system in the first place. 

I learned a few things last night though—did you know that candidates don’t actually have to be experienced in family or probate law to run for Judge?  Alongside the rules dictate that a candidate lack of experience cannot be discussed in the campaign.  So, it’s up for the voters to determine if the candidate running has enough experience.   I can’t imagine if my Judge in Michigan was using my family to “learn the ropes” for the first time.

Last night though, I found a great candidate, who is experienced, has lived in the courtroom for over 2 decades helping families solve issues again and again.   She has my vote; I’ll do anything I can to help protect the honor of the courtroom and judicial system with experienced candidates.

Christine Horwart.  Benton County Circuit Judge.  Vote for her.