In my own words …

Thank you for voting to elect me as your District Court Judge, Gallatin County.

Over 25 years of practicing law, experience in civil and criminal cases, and a deep commitment to our community make me the right person to be district court judge for Gallatin County.

I went to law school in Oregon and came back to Montana in 1995. Since that time I have been

in private practice, worked for Legal Services, done consumer protection and antitrust work for

the State of Montana, and served in a variety of leadership roles at the Office of State Public

Defender. I have tried numerous cases to juries, argued before the Montana Supreme Court

and represented hundreds of everyday Montanans. I have also worked with the Montana

State Legislature and interim committees to make our criminal justice system more fair and balanced.

A district court judge’s portfolio is exceptionally broad. Being a court of general jurisdiction,

virtually every type of case can be heard by the court. That’s why we want someone with a

broad range of experience in the position.

During my time on the bench, I have worked hard to provide people who appear before the Court with timely and

well-reasoned decisions. Through my experience, I understand how stressful it can be to come to court and for

the attorneys to litigate these cases.

That means I treat people with respect but also require accountability and consequences as the

facts may warrant.

As we all know Gallatin County is growing at a rapid rate. The County needs conscientious,

capable people working at the higher levels of government. I am suited for that role.

In the 2021 legislative session there were 3 judges appointed by Governor Steve Bullock who

faced confirmation by the Senate. The first judge was rejected by the Senate, the second judge

was confirmed by a vote of 26-24 on the last day of the session. I was confirmed by a vote of

50-0.

I have been in the Gallatin Valley for over 30 years. I know we are all here for the quality of life.

As your judge I will continue to work for community safety, a just and fair judicial system, and a

district court that reflects the values of the community. After all, this court is the people’s court, I

am simply managing it for a period of time. I have been doing the job since 2020. I cannot

say that I have not made mistakes, but know that, as I continue in this position, I apply the

law in the way we as citizens expect: objectively, fairly, and consistent with the constitutions of

the State of Montana and the United States of America.