Beyond the robe
No child should be destroyed by our justice system before they have a chance at life.
Therefore, I have developed an alternative adjudication program for young people and individuals facing their first arrest. Commonly these individuals have to commit to provide some level of community service. The idea is to serve the local community in a way that demonstrates understanding and accountability for the matter before the court as an alternative to prosecution.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse is an illness NOT fixed by Jail.
Many individuals enter the criminal justice process with underlying mental health issues and substance abuse disorders. I have been a strong advocate of our county’s Mental Health Court, Drug Treatment Court, and Veterans’ Court alternative programs. I have constantly identified and referred individuals to these programs to address the root cause of their behavior in order to help them avoid further involvement in the criminal justice system and live more productive lives.
Eviction Prevention and Intervention Coalition
In 2018, I launched the EPIC program in my court as another component of the county’s homelessness eradication effort. This provides tenants with free legal services and financial support when facing eviction due to no fault of their own (sudden job loss, disability etc.). This program allows families to maintain their residency and gives Landlords the financial security to make them whole.
The Wedding Judge
I am proud to say that I have married over 500+ people. It's an honor to get to be a part of people's happiest days!