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.