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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Bruce Brown

2008-11-01 12:01:00

: What are your qualifications for Office? Answer: I have been a Judge for over 10 years with Wichita Municipal Court. I have been a practicing attorney for 22 years. I have over 20 years of courtroom experience. I have extensive litigation experience having practiced law in courtrooms throughout Kansas, Oklahoma, Military Courts and Federal court. I have litigated dozens of jury trials. I am a graduate of the National Judicial College in Reno, NV. Also, I am also endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police. Question: What do you believe are some of the most important issues: Answer: (1). Community Safety. According to 2008 statistics from the FBI, the violent crime rate in Kansas has increased seven percent. We need a Sedgwick County that is safe for our children and families and a place where businesses want to stay. As a Judge for the past 10 years I

Answer: I have been a Judge in Wichita Municipal Court for over 10 years. I am 47 years old. I am married to Rachel and we have three children, Asher, Lucy and Macy, and a bulldog named Brunhilda. I was born in Wichita and grew up on a farm in central Kansas. I graduated with a BA from ORU in 1983 and obtained my law degree from Pepperdine University in 1986. I am a graduate of the National Judicial College in Reno, NV, having been awarded my certificate as a Special Court Trial Skills Judge in 2007. I served on Active Duty with the U.S. Army for four years and deployed to Kuwait in 1993. I am still active in the Army Reserves and hold the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. I am a member of the Board for Youth Horizons. I have been involved in mentoring at risk youth for over 10 years. I am active in my Church and serve as a small group leader. Question: What are your qualifications for Office? Answer: I have been a Judge for over 10 years with Wichita Municipal Court. I have been a practicing attorney for 22 years. I have over 20 years of courtroom experience. I have extensive litigation experience having practiced law in courtrooms throughout Kansas, Oklahoma, Military Courts and Federal court. I have litigated dozens of jury trials. I am a graduate of the National Judicial College in Reno, NV. Also, I am also endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police. Question: What do you believe are some of the most important issues: Answer: (1). Community Safety. According to 2008 statistics from the FBI, the violent crime rate in Kansas has increased seven percent. We need a Sedgwick County that is safe for our children and families and a place where businesses want to stay. As a Judge for the past 10 years I have a reputation for being tough on crime. Convicted criminals must be held responsible for their actions and the community protected. I believe this is further revealed in that I am endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police. (2). Judicial Activism. More and more we hear of Judges that impose their own beliefs in place of the law. This threatens our democracy and the safety of our communities. I promise to strictly follow the rule of law, not some personal agenda of my own. (3). Experience. District Judges handle serious issues to this community that demand experienced leadership. Issues of crime, divorce, and frivolous lawsuits are matters that demand experienced judicial leadership. Having over 10 years experience as a judge I am ready to serve immediately.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Jeff Syrios

2008-11-01 12:01:00

: Why do you believe this experience is important? Answer: I have learned a very important truth as a sitting judge: the courtroom belongs to the people, not to the judge. This is more than a campaign slogan for me. An effective judge understands that the litigants, their families and witnesses are most important. This is what separates good judges from great ones. Question: What else do you believe qualifies you to be a Sedgwick County Judge? Answer: I have a very diverse legal background. Take criminal law for an example. Not only do I serve as a judge, but I prosecute crimes (I have been the City Prosecutor in Rose Hill for 12 years) as well as defend those charged with crimes (I have been a Public Defender in the City of Wichita for 17 years). I also practice in the areas of workers’ compensation, business, employment, real estate, contracts, and personal injury law as well as courtroom litigation. I have been endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police. Question: What is an important issue for judges? Answer: Will they be impartial and follow the law despite their personal beliefs. Judges are not legislators or governors—they take an oath to follow the law regardless of what they personally think of the law. Our courts must be free and independent—free from the influence of outside interests and independent from the judge’s personal beliefs. Question: Talk about your educational background. Answer: I was born and raised in Wichita. I graduated from Southeast High School in 1981. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and Business Administration from Bethel College in 1985. I graduated in 1987 with Dean’s Honors from Washburn University School of Law. I have practiced law in Wichita for 20 years. Question: In what capacity have you practiced law? Answer: I began as an associate in a small law firm. In 1995, I then started my own firm, Syrios Law Office, with my father who is also a lawyer. In June of 2006, I joined the firm of Martin and Churchill as Special Counsel. Question: Talk about your family. Answer: I have been married to Susan for 23 years. We have three beautiful boys: Justin (17), Connor (15) and Zach (12). Question: Any civic activities? Answer: Susan and I have been active members at First Evangelical Free Church for about 19 years. I am on the governing board at Central Christian Academy. I have served on the HopeNet, Inc

Answer: Yes. I have been the Municipal Court Judge in Clearwater for the last seven years and in Douglass for the last four years. Question: Why do you believe this experience is important? Answer: I have learned a very important truth as a sitting judge: the courtroom belongs to the people, not to the judge. This is more than a campaign slogan for me. An effective judge understands that the litigants, their families and witnesses are most important. This is what separates good judges from great ones. Question: What else do you believe qualifies you to be a Sedgwick County Judge? Answer: I have a very diverse legal background. Take criminal law for an example. Not only do I serve as a judge, but I prosecute crimes (I have been the City Prosecutor in Rose Hill for 12 years) as well as defend those charged with crimes (I have been a Public Defender in the City of Wichita for 17 years). I also practice in the areas of workers’ compensation, business, employment, real estate, contracts, and personal injury law as well as courtroom litigation. I have been endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police. Question: What is an important issue for judges? Answer: Will they be impartial and follow the law despite their personal beliefs. Judges are not legislators or governors—they take an oath to follow the law regardless of what they personally think of the law. Our courts must be free and independent—free from the influence of outside interests and independent from the judge’s personal beliefs. Question: Talk about your educational background. Answer: I was born and raised in Wichita. I graduated from Southeast High School in 1981. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and Business Administration from Bethel College in 1985. I graduated in 1987 with Dean’s Honors from Washburn University School of Law. I have practiced law in Wichita for 20 years. Question: In what capacity have you practiced law? Answer: I began as an associate in a small law firm. In 1995, I then started my own firm, Syrios Law Office, with my father who is also a lawyer. In June of 2006, I joined the firm of Martin and Churchill as Special Counsel. Question: Talk about your family. Answer: I have been married to Susan for 23 years. We have three beautiful boys: Justin (17), Connor (15) and Zach (12). Question: Any civic activities? Answer: Susan and I have been active members at First Evangelical Free Church for about 19 years. I am on the governing board at Central Christian Academy. I have served on the HopeNet, Inc. board of directors and resource council since 1996.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Eric Commer

2008-11-01 12:01:00

: I understand you are running for District Court – Division 28, how can I as a voter know whether I am in your division? Answer: The Divisions are not geographical. The Divisions are simply position numbers. Every voter in Sedgwick County can vote for one judge for every Division. So, if you are a registered voter in Sedgwick County, you can vote for me. Question: What are the requirements for being a District Judge? Answer: The technical requirements to be a Sedgwick County District Court Judge are to be at least thirty years old, be an attorney licensed to practice law in Kansas and to be a resident of Sedgwick County while serving as Judge. Question: So, you are an attorney and you live in Sedgwick County? Answer: Yes. I am 52 years old. I obtained my license to practice law in 1980 after graduation from Washburn School of Law in Topeka. And except for time in college and law school, I have always lived in Sedgwick County. But beyond the technical requirements there are other qualifications that most voters will be concerned about – particularly: courtroom experience and respected character. Because a judge oversees the process of lawsuits from the time a case is filed through the trial and decision, it makes sense that judges should have personal experience being in the courtroom from their career prior to becoming a judge. Character is important because the manner in which a judge handles cases in court requires fair treatments of all persons – the parties, the witnesses, the jury, the attorneys and court personnel who are all involved in what are often high conflict battles. To maintain respect for our courts and the legal system, judges need to have a balance of patience and integrity and a capacity for stern judgment, fairness and at times mercy, depending on the facts of a case and the application of law. Question: What legal experience do you have for being a judge? Answer: I have been practicing law for 28 years in Sedgwick County and my practice has been litigation oriented requiring me to be in the courtroom every week. I have tried cases in every department of the Sedgwick County courts – criminal, family, civil, juvenile, probate and traffic. And I have handled or tried cases in district courts in at least ten other counties around Kansas. I also served for 20 years from 1985-2005 as a volunteer investigating ethics complaints filed against attorneys. I care that the whole legal process be untainted, trustworthy and respected by the public. In the past year, I started serving an appointment to the Kansas Supreme Court study committee on Self-Represented Litigants. This committee is evaluating what courts can do to balance sometimes competing interests of litigants, attorneys and judges. Our courts must be accessible to all, should encourage case presentation that is most effective for the parties and must provide for efficient use of the court’s time and resources. Question: Do you have other community experience beyond your legal practice? Answer: I have been a member of the Christian Legal Society (CLS) for 28 years and am a past president of the local chapter. The significant work of the local chapter is to provide free legal consultations in some of the poorer sections of Wichita in conjunction with the Salvation Army, World Impact Village and Hilltop Urban Church. I helped found that service and have participated almost monthly since its inception. I am also a past Elder at First Evangelical Free Church and volunteered there for 9 years in weekly youth ministry with junior and senior high students. Question: I have heard some people complain about “activist judges”. What is that complaint? Answer: Both the U.S. and Kansas Constitutions designed our federal and state governments to have three branches. The Legislative Branch (representatives and senators) has the responsibility of writing the law. The Executive Branch (Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State and their subordinates) is charged with enforcing the laws of the state. The Judicial Branch (appeals justices, district court judges and the courts) is entrusted with the responsibility of applying the law to the facts of a situation, which facts are often in dispute. Those complaining believe that some judges have by their “decisions” strayed from interpreting or applying the law to take on the role of also writing or rewriting new law. In a nutshell they are claiming that some judges have become one person legislatures – making new laws. Question: What do you think of that? Answer: I believe that judges should not be activists, but should apply the law according to its original intent when it was created by the legislature. It is a prime responsibility of judges to be students of the law to understand the language of the laws well and to seek to apply the law to conform to the purpose and intent of the legislature when they wrote the law. Judges should make their decisions based first upon the facts of the case and should follow the law regardless of their personal opinion about whether the law is good or bad or should be changed. That being said, there are some areas of the law that leave a great amount of discretion to the court in making a judgment call as to the best course for a decision within the bounds of the law. Within that realm of discretionary decision making every judge is affected at least in part by the personal experience and values which they personally hold. That is why the character and values that a judge brings to the courtroom are important. Question: How have your values been developed? Answer: I was raised in southwest Wichita by a father and mother who both grew up on farms. I was taught the value of hard work by their examples. My father worked 41 years for one of Wichita’s aircraft manufacturers in test engineering. My mother taught school for two years before devoting herself to raising three children and maintaining our family and home on a limited budget. Their examples also taught me to s

Answer: The Sedgwick County District Court is the state of Kansas court which handles all legal claims and criminal cases that are filed based upon the laws of the State of Kansas and are based upon events that occurred in Sedgwick County. A District Court Judge supervises both jury and judge trials to make sure trials and decisions are handled justly and fairly according to the law. In trials presented without a jury, the district court judge is the one who makes the decision applying the law to the facts presented in evidence. The types of cases cover a broad spectrum. The District Court decides most all legal cases based upon events that occurred in Sedgwick County concerning commission of a felony crime, divorce, paternity, child custody or child support disputes, auto accidents, malpractice and other personal injuries, landlord/tenant disputes, breach of contract, other civil wrongs, probate and estate division cases, adoptions, juvenile offenses and child in need of care cases. The Sedgwick County District Court also handles all traffic matters that occur within the county, but not inside a city’s limits. This list covers most, but not all cases. Question: I understand you are running for District Court – Division 28, how can I as a voter know whether I am in your division? Answer: The Divisions are not geographical. The Divisions are simply position numbers. Every voter in Sedgwick County can vote for one judge for every Division. So, if you are a registered voter in Sedgwick County, you can vote for me. Question: What are the requirements for being a District Judge? Answer: The technical requirements to be a Sedgwick County District Court Judge are to be at least thirty years old, be an attorney licensed to practice law in Kansas and to be a resident of Sedgwick County while serving as Judge. Question: So, you are an attorney and you live in Sedgwick County? Answer: Yes. I am 52 years old. I obtained my license to practice law in 1980 after graduation from Washburn School of Law in Topeka. And except for time in college and law school, I have always lived in Sedgwick County. But beyond the technical requirements there are other qualifications that most voters will be concerned about – particularly: courtroom experience and respected character. Because a judge oversees the process of lawsuits from the time a case is filed through the trial and decision, it makes sense that judges should have personal experience being in the courtroom from their career prior to becoming a judge. Character is important because the manner in which a judge handles cases in court requires fair treatments of all persons – the parties, the witnesses, the jury, the attorneys and court personnel who are all involved in what are often high conflict battles. To maintain respect for our courts and the legal system, judges need to have a balance of patience and integrity and a capacity for stern judgment, fairness and at times mercy, depending on the facts of a case and the application of law. Question: What legal experience do you have for being a judge? Answer: I have been practicing law for 28 years in Sedgwick County and my practice has been litigation oriented requiring me to be in the courtroom every week. I have tried cases in every department of the Sedgwick County courts – criminal, family, civil, juvenile, probate and traffic. And I have handled or tried cases in district courts in at least ten other counties around Kansas. I also served for 20 years from 1985-2005 as a volunteer investigating ethics complaints filed against attorneys. I care that the whole legal process be untainted, trustworthy and respected by the public. In the past year, I started serving an appointment to the Kansas Supreme Court study committee on Self-Represented Litigants. This committee is evaluating what courts can do to balance sometimes competing interests of litigants, attorneys and judges. Our courts must be accessible to all, should encourage case presentation that is most effective for the parties and must provide for efficient use of the court’s time and resources. Question: Do you have other community experience beyond your legal practice? Answer: I have been a member of the Christian Legal Society (CLS) for 28 years and am a past president of the local chapter. The significant work of the local chapter is to provide free legal consultations in some of the poorer sections of Wichita in conjunction with the Salvation Army, World Impact Village and Hilltop Urban Church. I helped found that service and have participated almost monthly since its inception. I am also a past Elder at First Evangelical Free Church and volunteered there for 9 years in weekly youth ministry with junior and senior high students. Question: I have heard some people complain about “activist judges”. What is that complaint? Answer: Both the U.S. and Kansas Constitutions designed our federal and state governments to have three branches. The Legislative Branch (representatives and senators) has the responsibility of writing the law. The Executive Branch (Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State and their subordinates) is charged with enforcing the laws of the state. The Judicial Branch (appeals justices, district court judges and the courts) is entrusted with the responsibility of applying the law to the facts of a situation, which facts are often in dispute. Those complaining believe that some judges have by their “decisions” strayed from interpreting or applying the law to take on the role of also writing or rewriting new law. In a nutshell they are claiming that some judges have become one person legislatures – making new laws. Question: What do you think of that? Answer: I believe that judges should not be activists, but should apply the law according to its original intent when it was created by the legislature. It is a prime responsibility of judges to be students of the law to understand the language of the laws well and to seek to apply the law to conform to the purpose and intent of the legislature when they wrote the law. Judges should make their decisions based first upon the facts of the case and should follow the law regardless of their personal opinion about whether the law is good or bad or should be changed. That being said, there are some areas of the law that leave a great amount of discretion to the court in making a judgment call as to the best course for a decision within the bounds of the law. Within that realm of discretionary decision making every judge is affected at least in part by the personal experience and values which they personally hold. That is why the character and values that a judge brings to the courtroom are important. Question: How have your values been developed? Answer: I was raised in southwest Wichita by a father and mother who both grew up on farms. I was taught the value of hard work by their examples. My father worked 41 years for one of Wichita’s aircraft manufacturers in test engineering. My mother taught school for two years before devoting herself to raising three children and maintaining our family and home on a limited budget. Their examples also taught me to seek quality in all I do and to treat all people with respect. My parents also gave high priority to their faith in Christ – a faith which I personally adopted as my own as a young boy. So throughout my life, I have also sought to be a student of the Bible. That is the major source for my personal values. It teaches me: that all human life and every person is to be valued, that wrong conduct should be judged and that because all of us commit wrong, we must balance judgment at times with mercy and grace. Because Jesus claimed to die for all mankind, that act teaches me that I should value every man, woman and child. My personal faith is not something that I can impose on any one else. But it teaches me to love God, to seek excellence, to strive for personal integrity and to treat every person with value and respect. Question: If someone wanted to get more information about you or help with your campaign, how could they do that? Answer: I have a website in development at www.CommerForJudge.com or I can be reached by phone through 263-3154 or by email at CommerJudge28@cox.net.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Patrick Walters

2008-11-01 12:01:00

Question: What is the biggest issue in the race for Sedgwick County District Court judge, Division 14?

Answer: The biggest issue in the race for Sedgwick County District Court Judge, Division 14, is the behavior and conduct of the incumbent, Rebecca Pilshaw. Her courtroom conduct of yelling at jurors resulted in her third violation of ethics rules since 2007. No other judge in the state of Kansas has as many violations. The Kansas Supreme Court said Pilshaw’s failure to control her temper and frustrations and her conduct toward potential members of the jury in open court greatly detracted from the honor and dignity of the judiciary. In addition, Rebecca Pilshaw earned the lowest performance rating among the 26 Judges in Sedgwick County in a survey conducted by the Wichita Eagle and Wichita Bar Association in 2006 and 2008. It is time to restore integrity to Division 14. I was born and raised in this community and attended public schools, Wichita State University and Washburn Law School. I am married with 2 children and 4 step-children. Prior to becoming an attorney, I worked in the banking industry for 10 years. As an attorney, I have practiced law for over 15 years. I have helped many clients through the legal process. As a judge, I would treat all parties with dignity and respect, especially the citizens of our community that serve as jurors as part of their civic duty. I would appreciate your vote on November 4th.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Carol Bacon

2008-11-01 11:51:00

Question: What would make Carol a good and fair judge?

Answer: Carol Bacon has a single guiding principle that drives her campaign: a judge must apply the law to all parties with integrity, insight, impartiality and common sense. Applying the Letter of the Law: In our modern times, judicial integrity is under constant siege from political and personal interests. The decision of a judge cannot rest on such interests, but must remain focused on the law and the facts presented in a court of law. A judge is bound, legally, morally, and ethically, by the law as it is written in constitutions, statutes, rules, and regulations. No matter the personal opinion of the individual judge, a judge must apply the laws as written to the facts of each case. Judges are not elected to create new laws, or to question the wisdom or desirability of the laws that are enacted. The rule of law is the most basic underpinning of a free society, and it can only be guarded by a judiciary intent on applying the law as written. Carol Bacon is committed to doing just that. She understands that her role is to apply the letter of the law, which the people of the State of Kansas, through their duly elected legislators, have seen fit to pass. Carol does not have any history of involvement with elected politics, other than as a judge, and she will resist any political influence that would have the courts used as political tools rather than instruments of justice. Ability, not Popularity: In a system where judges are elected, there is a danger that these important positions will be filled based upon popularity rather than ability. Yet a judge has one of the most intellectually demanding jobs in our society, and the best measure of any judicial candidate’s qualification is his or her legal ability and judicial insight. The law is voluminous, complex, and ever changing. A judge must have a vast store of knowledge of the law, intellectual prowess to interpret the law, a broad base of experience from which to understand the law, and the wisdom with which to apply the law. Carol Bacon not only possesses these qualities, but also has an 11-year record of serving on the bench to prove her merit as a judicial candidate. Carol’s trial experience began in 1984 when she joined the public defender’s office. As a trial attorney, she handled more than 1,000 criminal cases. In 1993, she became a District Court Judge in Sedgwick County. Carol has also presided in courtrooms in Shawnee, Reno and Sumner counties, and was selected to serve on panels with the Kansas Court of Appeals. Her work in the Juvenile Department earned her an award for her “years of service and dedication to the children of Sedgwick County,” from local child advocacy group, Roots and Wings. After leaving the bench in 2001, Carol became the Chief Attorney in the Juvenile Division of the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office. She is a trained mediator and regularly presides as a pro-tem judge in District Court and Municipal Court. Carol has also served on the Kansas Criminal Law Advisory Committee and on the Sedgwick County Law Library Board of Trustees. She served as president of the Wichita Child Guidance Center board of directors, and on the board of directors of the Wichita Children’s Home and Regional Prevention Center. Carol is the right candidate for Division 1, Sedgwick County District Court Judge. A Balanced Perspective: Carol Bacon knows that justice can only exist when the law is applied impartially to all parties, regardless of wealth, social status, race, or gender. Fairness is integral to the very meaning of the word “justice.” Part of the fairness of the judiciary must be measured in how well it represents the various perspectives of the informed legal community. In Sedgwick County today, there are 26 active district court judges. Of these, there is only one woman serving on the bench. It cannot be questioned that men and women are equal as human beings and must be treated equally under the law. However, it must also be acknowledged that, while equal, men and women are different. Those differences manifest themselves in many significant and beneficial ways, including differences concerning how best to apply the laws to the facts of particular cases. A just legal system must appreciate these differences and allow the different perspectives brought by male and female lawyers to be represented in the judiciary. Carol Bacon is not more qualified to be a judge simply by being a female. Rather, she is a highly qualified judicial candidate that can also help to balance the current composition of Sedgwick County’s court system.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Gerard C Scott

2008-11-01 11:51:00

Question: Who do you support for District Court Judge, Division 1, 18th District?

Answer: I support and would like to ask you to vote for Kansas Senator Phillip B. Journey. Now that the dust has settled from the primary election some clear choices are before us for the general election coming up November 4th. Division I is an open seat as a result of the retirement of The Honorable Karl Friedel. Phil has been a resident of Sedgwick County since he was 4 years old. Phil and his wife of 25 years, Suyapa, have 4 children and live in Haysville in a home just 2 miles from where Phil grew up. Phil was admitted to the bar in 1983. He has been a sole practitioner for nearly 25 years. While Phil has practiced in all divisions of Sedgwick County District Court, his law practice is concentrated on criminal and traffic matters. Phil has lectured at Continuing Legal Education programs for the Wichita Bar Association, the Kansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Kansas Bar Association. Senator Phil Journey has served the people of Kansas for the last 5 years in the Kansas Senate. I would like to remind you that, while serving in the senate, Phil was appointed chair of the only quasi-judicial legislative committee, Special Claims Against the State. He also has served on Judiciary, Juvenile Justice and Corrections Oversight, Public Health and Welfare, Health Care Strategies, Transportation and Natural Resources Committees. An effective legislator, Phil has drafted dozens of bills that have been enacted into law including the Animal Cruelty Act. His legislation has promoted significant improvements in criminal justice, juvenile justice, probate and other areas that have improved our courts and the legal system in Kansas. Legislation drafted by Phil Journey is now held up by the United States Justice Department as model legislation for other states to adopt in the management of violent sex offenders after release from prison. Other legislation written by Senator Phil Journey increased criminal penalties for individuals who grind the serial numbers off firearms, enhanced the penalty for criminals defrauding others by writing bad checks, mandated the reporting by our Courts to the FBI individuals who are found to be a danger to others so they may never buy a firearm anywhere in the USA. He also wrote legislation that begins the process of reviewing the implementation of new Drug Courts statewide to give courts more tools to break the cycle of drug and alcohol addiction and the criminality associated with it. He also helped write legislation creating the first drug treatment prisons for repeat offenders and created the framework for our Department of Corrections to deal with parolees in a new way that has reduced recidivism crime rates by over 40% in less than 2 years! Don’t just listen to me, but read what others are saying about Senator Phil Journey and his opponent. The Wichita Eagle’s Editorial Board wrote, “His high profile as a state senator and gun-rights crusader makes Phillip B. Journey the favorite in the GOP race. But other qualities likely would make him a capable judge, including his reputation for being collegial and pragmatic, and for zealously advocating for his clients during his nearly 25 years as a sole practitioner concentrated in criminal and traffic law. In just five years in the Kansas Senate, Journey had a significant impact as a lawmaker, especially on criminal penalties and dealing with sex offenders and substance abusers. Now he looks forward to being the one ‘that actually helps people fix their lives,’ he said.” The reporter David Klepper of the Kansas City Star described Phil during floor debate on one of the hottest issues of the last legislative session as “the voice of reason”. The editor of the Topeka Capital Journal, Rick Anderson, wrote about Phil, “He worked hard, was conscientious and became a go-to guy for reporters... Some lawmakers develop a crust when they get a taste of public backlash. But if Journey became embittered, he did a great job of hiding it. He worked with a smile...” Judges need to have that same attitude about following what they know to be right not what is popular. Even though these writers may not have agreed with every position taken by Kansas Senator Phil Journey he earned their respect because of his honesty, his demeanor and his courage to do what he believed needed to be done. I believe I should remind you what the Wichita Eagle’s editorial board wrote about Phil’s opponent because this choice is so clear. They wrote, “Voters rejected (Phil’s Opponent) in 2000 after eight years on the district bench, amid questions about her judicial temperament and fairness and her role, as a juvenile court judge, in the county’s soaring numbers of foster care cases. Those concerns linger, as reflected in the survey of attorneys In the Sunday Eagle.” During his 5 years in the Kansas Senate Senator Journey never missed a vote. Phil worked hard for all Kansans. He will bring that same strong work ethic to our court system. If you wish to contact Phil, his office phone number is 316-269-0602.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Jama Mitchell

2008-11-01 11:49:00

Question: What are your qualifications for office: previous experience, other offices, club and service involvement?

Answer: This is my 14th year of practicing law in district court. As a Deputy Public Defender, I appear in court daily, often for multiple hearings in different courtrooms. I’ve tried about 75 cases to a jury, and appeared for hundreds of other hearings. I believe that experience in district court is far more important than practicing law in municipal courts, which are not courts of record, which do not allow for jury trials and cannot hear felony cases. District court is far more demanding of attorneys in their knowledge of the law, handling the pressures of very serious (felony) charges that often carry far more serious consequences, and district court is significantly more stressful in effectively representing people. Every word I say in court is recorded, my cross examination of witnesses has been quoted in published opinions, and I’m proud to say that appellate courts have overturned rulings and corrected a mistake made against my client in district court, and in one case, resulted in the release of my client from prison one year earlier than he otherwise would have served. Trying cases to a jury is also very demanding and stressful, and something I have become quite accustomed to. Dealing out traffic violations or whether a second DUI offender will serve 2 days or 5 in jail simply does NOT compare to the work trial attorneys do in district court. I also cover the court docket for our office daily every other month, which requires a lot of organizational skills, and I have assisted in managing an office with a staff of 35, including 23 other attorneys. My courtroom experience in district court is thorough and extensive as is my experience trying cases from felony DUI charges to trying about a dozen homicide cases. I am well-organized and can effectively manage a staff. I am a member of All Saints Catholic Church and volunteer my time by speaking to groups of young people about the serious consequences they will face as adults of criminal action and imprisonment for what many juveniles consider merely reckless fun. Question: What do you see as the top issues facing the candidates in your race, and how would you address those issues? Answer: Experience, judicial temperament, a strong work ethic, fair and equal treatment and respect, dignity, courtesy and compassion to everyone who appears in court, and the ability to listen carefully to all parties with an open mind. I will not come to the bench with an agenda or any particular mission or message, but will be guided solely by the law and uninfluenced by the various competing interests or my personal and religious beliefs.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Loren Houk

2008-11-01 11:47:00

Question: What experience do you have?

Answer: Loren H. Houk has practiced law in Sedgwick county for more than 28 years. Over the years he has gained broad experience in all of the courts and departments of the Eighteenth Judicial District and the numerous Municipal Courts in Wichita and the surrounding area. Although many candidates for judicial office may claim considerable experience, few can claim a diversity of experience that Loren can. His experience has included: Civil, criminal, serious traffic offenses including DUI, administrative law, real estate title examination, real estate sales law, title actions, personal injury, medical malpractice, consumer protection litigation, agricultural law, corporate litigation, civil municipal contracts, eminent domain, municipal bond issues, zoning and land use actions, products liability litigation, oil and gas litigation, appellate practice, real estate foreclosure, collections, divorce and family law, business formations and business law, estate planning, probate administration and adoption. Loren was introduced to personal injury, medical malpractice and medical products liability law and litigation during his last two years of law school when he worked as a law clerk for Charlie Fisher at the firm of Fisher, Ralston, Ochs and Heck in Topeka where he did extensive research and writing in the Dalkan shield multi district litigation. After graduation from Washburn Law School in May 1980, he accepted a position with the firm of Alkire, Clausing, Wilson, Wilson and Flaigle, where he assisted Lael Alkire and began to learn the basics of the actual practice of the law as a general practitioner in the “old” tradition. A year later, he and Harold Flaigle stretched their wings in a short-lived partnership. During this period Loren worked for six months as a juvenile defender in Juvenile Court. Loren then “hung out his shingle” on Main Street in his home town of Valley Center, and for the following five years served as City Attorney for Valley Center, and also for the City of Bentley, while maintaining his private practice on Main street. In the late 1980’s, he served as City Attorney for the City of Derby. Through the 90’s and the 00’s, Loren has maintained a steady general practice which he has balanced between “office” practice and trial practice, in a myriad of cases involving civil, criminal, family law and probate matters. Those who know Loren, can attest to his affability and even temperament, his broad knowledge of the law and his keen intellect. No new candidate for judge in the Eighteenth Judicial District is better suited by way of background, experience, intellect and temperament for a seat on the bench, than is Loren. For more information on background, experience and Loren’s observations and reflections on what makes a good judge, go to www.houkforjudge.org and follow the prompts.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

David Calvert

2008-11-01 11:42:00

Question: What were some of your experiences on the bench?

Answer: I was elected three times to the district court bench and served for eleven years as a District Court Judge. I was named as the Kansas Trial Judge of the Year by the lawyers who practiced before me. I became interested in making changes to the way jurors were summoned and was responsible for innovations in that system that has since saved taxpayers millions of dollars. I was appointed Chair of the Kansas Supreme Court Jury Management Standards Committee which created the first state standards in the United States. I worked with the National Center for Jury Management and traveled the country from coast to coast as part of a team, teaching other judges and court administrators about our jury management system. At the request of the Kansas Chief Justice, I shared our experience with the National Conference of Chief Justices. I was assigned to handle some extremely difficult and complex cases, including murder cases, medical malpractice and product liability cases, and divorce cases. I resigned my position to enter the private practice of law. Question: What have you experienced as a private lawyer? Answer: I have practiced as a partner in a medium-sized firm and have been a solo practice lawyer for the past several years. During that time I have successfully represented persons bringing lawsuits and persons who have been sued in all types of cases including foreclosures, automobile accidents, civil rights, medical malpractice, consumer fraud, employment discrimination, products liability, and Americans with Disabilities Act cases. I have been approved by the Federal Court as a mediator in federal cases and also mediate state cases. I have successfully mediated over 300 cases for people, resulting in settlements which avoided a trial. Question: Why do you want to return to the bench? Answer: I really enjoyed being a judge and the lawyers who appeared before me tell me that they enjoyed appearing in my court. I am passionate about the practice of law and helping others. To one appearing in court, that appearance is the most important thing going on in that person’s life at the moment. This is true whether the case is a traffic ticket, small claims case, complex contract case, or any other type of civil, criminal, or family law case. As a judge, I was able to provide people their day in court in a fair and impartial manner. I treated everyone in my courtroom the way I would like to be treated – with respect. Question: Why should I vote for you? Answer: I have more experience as a district judge than any other non-incumbent candidate. It is important that parties who appear in court do so in front of a judge who knows the law and applies it fairly. My being named Kansas Trial Judge of the Year is an indication of the confidence that lawyers have in me and their comfort with my judicial temperament.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Michael Foster

2008-11-01 11:18:00

Question: What factors are the most important qualities that make a good judge?

Answer: • A GOOD JUDGE must be independent of outside influences and interests. • A GOOD JUDGE must be impartial - must convey to litigants he or she is able to decide an issue without preconception or prejudice. • A GOOD JUDGE must be competent - the law is a technical field and judging is a complex task - must have a solid background of working with the law, evidence and rules of procedure that governs lawsuits. • A GOOD JUDGE must be able to command the respect of those who appear before him or her in order for the court to maintain dignity and respect for the judicial system. I believe I have these qualities and will be beneficial to the judiciary of the Eighteenth Judicial District. I have the experience to be a judge. I have practiced law for 35 years, beginning as a prosecutor with the Wichita Municipal Court for approximately 1 year and then private practice. My practice is not limited or confined to any particular field. I have appeared and actively practiced in each department of the Sedgwick County District Court as well as surrounding districts. This includes family law, civil law, probate and juvenile. I have served as municipal court judge for the City of Derby, the City of Valley Center and for approximately the past 20 years have served in the capacity of municipal court judge for the City of Kechi.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Gerard C Scott

2008-10-01 16:49:00

I would like to ask you to vote for Kansas Senator Phillip B. Journey who is running for District Court Judge, Division I, in the 18th Judicial District.

Now that the dust has settled from the primary election some clear choices are before us for the general election coming up November 4th. Division I is an open seat as a result of the retirement of The Honorable Karl Friedel. Phil has been a resident of Sedgwick County since he was 4 years old. Phil and his wife of 25 years, Suyapa, have 4 children and live in Haysville in a home just 2 miles from where Phil grew up. Phil was admitted to the bar in 1983. He has been a sole practitioner for nearly 25 years. While Phil has practiced in all divisions of Sedgwick County District Court, his law practice is concentrated on criminal and traffic matters. Phil has lectured at Continuing Legal Education programs for the Wichita Bar Association, the Kansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Kansas Bar Association. Senator Phil Journey has served the people of Kansas for the last 5 years in the Kansas Senate. I would like to remind you that, while serving in the senate, Phil was appointed chair of the only quasi-judicial legislative committee, Special Claims Against the State. He also has served on Judiciary, Juvenile Justice and Corrections Oversight, Public Health and Welfare, Health Care Strategies, Transportation and Natural Resources Committees. An effective legislator, Phil has drafted dozens of bills that have been enacted into law including the Animal Cruelty Act. His legislation has promoted significant improvements in criminal justice, juvenile justice, probate and other areas that have improved our courts and the legal system in Kansas. Legislation drafted by Phil Journey is now held up by the United States Justice Department as model legislation for other states to adopt in the management of violent sex offenders after release from prison. Other legislation written by Senator Phil Journey increased criminal penalties for individuals who grind the serial numbers off firearms, enhanced the penalty for criminals defrauding others by writing bad checks, mandated the reporting by our Courts to the FBI individuals who are found to be a danger to others so they may never buy a firearm anywhere in the USA. He also wrote legislation that begins the process of reviewing the implementation of new Drug Courts statewide to give courts more tools to break the cycle of drug and alcohol addiction and the criminality associated with it. He also helped write legislation creating the first drug treatment prisons for repeat offenders and created the framework for our Department of Corrections to deal with parolees in a new way that has reduced recidivism crime rates by over 40% in less than 2 years! Don’t just listen to me, but read what others are saying about Senator Phil Journey and his opponent. The Wichita Eagle’s Editorial Board wrote, “His high profile as a state senator and gun-rights crusader make Phillip B. Journey the favorite in the GOP race. But other qualities likely would make him a capable judge, including his reputation for being collegial and pragmatic, and for zealously advocating for his clients during his nearly 25 years as a sole practitioner concentrated in criminal and traffic law. In just five years in the Kansas Senate, Journey had a significant impact as a lawmaker, especially on criminal penalties and dealing with sex offenders and substance abusers. Now he looks forward to being the one ‘that actually helps people fix their lives,’ he said.” The reporter David Klepper of the Kansas City Star described Phil during floor debate on one of the hottest issues of the last legislative session as “the voice of reason”. The editor of the Topeka Capital Journal, Rick Anderson, wrote about Phil, “He worked hard, was conscientious and became a go-to guy for reporters... Some lawmakers develop a crust when they get a taste of public backlash. But if Journey became embittered, he did a great job of hiding it. He worked with a smile...” Judges need to have that same attitude about following what they know to be right not what is popular. Even though these writers may not have agreed with every position taken by Kansas Senator Phil Journey he earned their respect because of his honesty, his demeanor and his courage to do what he believed needed to be done. I believe I should remind you what the Wichita Eagle’s editorial board wrote about Phil’s opponent because this choice is so clear. They wrote, “Voters rejected (Phil’s Opponent) in 2000 after eight years on the district bench, amid questions about her judicial temperament and fairness and her role, as a juvenile court judge, in the county’s soaring numbers of foster care cases. Those concerns linger, as reflected in the survey of attorneys In the Sunday Eagle.” During his 5 years in the Kansas Senate Senator Journey never missed a vote. Phil worked hard for all Kansans. He will bring that same strong work ethic to our court system. If you wish to contact Phil, his office phone number is 316-269-0602.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Bruce Brown

2008-10-01 08:48:00

: What qualifies you to be a District Court Judge? Answer: I have been a full time Judge for 10 years in Wichita Municipal Court. As a Judge, I have earned a solid reputation for being fair to all parties and tough on convicted criminals. I have 22 years of experience as an attorney. I have extensive courtroom experience having spent 20 years in litigation. I have a very broad courtroom experience. I have litigated in municipal, state and federal courts in multiple states and in military court. I am a graduate of the National Judicial College in Reno, Nevada, and was awarded the College’s Certificate as a “Special Court Trial Skills Judge”. My 18 years of military experience gives me a unique set of leadership skills for the courtroom. I was on active duty for four years and was deployed to Kuwa

Answer: First, we have a serious crime problem in Sedgwick County. According to statistics just released by the FBI, violent crime is up seven percent in Kansas. This is unacceptable and threatens our families and children. Judges who are lenient on convicted criminals undermine the safety of our Sedgwick County community. As a Judge for the past 10 years, I have demonstrated a tough, no nonsense approach to dealing with crime that works. Second, I am very concerned about the dangers of Judicial Activism. Judges who put their own preferences in place of the law are undermining our democracy and threaten the safety of our communities. I strongly believe my role, as Judge, is to follow the law as it is written. Third, being a Judge is my passion and what I have loved to do for the past 10 years. I have shown myself to be a dedicated and hard working judge. Question: What qualifies you to be a District Court Judge? Answer: I have been a full time Judge for 10 years in Wichita Municipal Court. As a Judge, I have earned a solid reputation for being fair to all parties and tough on convicted criminals. I have 22 years of experience as an attorney. I have extensive courtroom experience having spent 20 years in litigation. I have a very broad courtroom experience. I have litigated in municipal, state and federal courts in multiple states and in military court. I am a graduate of the National Judicial College in Reno, Nevada, and was awarded the College’s Certificate as a “Special Court Trial Skills Judge”. My 18 years of military experience gives me a unique set of leadership skills for the courtroom. I was on active duty for four years and was deployed to Kuwait in 1993. I am still active in the Army Reserves as a Lieutenant Colonel. Question: What position are you running for and who can vote for you? Answer: I am running for Division 10 of the 18 Judicial District. This covers all of Sedgwick County, so all voters with in the county can vote. Question: Why should voters support you over your opponent? Answer: I have been a Judge for 10 years. My opponent has no judge experience. I am a graduate of the National Judicial College. My opponent has no judge education. I am a Lieutenant Colonel active in the Army Reserves. My opponent has no military experience. I have a solid reputation for being fair but firm on convicted criminals. Primarily criminal defense attorneys support my opponent. Thank you and I would appreciate your vote.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Jeff Syrios

2008-10-01 08:43:00

: Why do you believe this experience is important? Answer: I have learned a very important truth as a sitting judge: the courtroom belongs to the people, not to the judge. This is more than a campaign slogan for me. An effective judge understands that the litigants, their families and witnesses are most important. This is what separates good judges from great ones. Question: What else do you believe qualifies you to be a Sedgwick County Judge? Answer: I have a very diverse legal background. Take criminal law for an example. Not only do I serve as a judge, but I prosecute crimes (I have been the City Prosecutor in Rose Hill for 12 years) as well as defend those charged with crimes (I have been a Public Defender in the City of Wichita for 17 years). I also practice in the areas of workers’ compensation, business, employment, real estate, contracts, and personal injury law as well as courtroom litigation. I have been endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police. Question: What is an important issue for judges? Answer: Will they be impartial and follow the law despite their personal beliefs. Judges are not legislators or governors—they take an oath to follow the law regardless of what they personally think of the law. Our courts must be free and independent—free from the influence of outside interests and independent from the judge’s personal beliefs. Question: Talk about your educational background. Answer: I was born and raised in Wichita. I graduated from Southeast High School in 1981. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and Business Administration from Bethel College in 1985. I graduated in 1987 with Dean’s Honors from Washburn University School of Law. I have practiced law in Wichita for 20 years. Question: In what capacity have you practiced law? Answer: I began as an associate in a small law firm. In 1995, I then started my own firm, Syrios Law Office, with my father who is also a lawyer. In June of 2006, I joined the firm of Martin and Churchill as Special Counsel. Question: Talk about your family. Answer: I have been married to Susan for 23 years. We have three beautiful boys: Justin (17), Connor (15) and Zach (12). Question: Any civic activities? Answer: Susan and I have been active members at First Evangelical Free Church for about 19 years. I am on the governing board at Central Christian Academy. I have served on the HopeNet, Inc

Answer: Yes. I have been the Municipal Court Judge in Clearwater for the last seven years and in Douglass for the last four years. Question: Why do you believe this experience is important? Answer: I have learned a very important truth as a sitting judge: the courtroom belongs to the people, not to the judge. This is more than a campaign slogan for me. An effective judge understands that the litigants, their families and witnesses are most important. This is what separates good judges from great ones. Question: What else do you believe qualifies you to be a Sedgwick County Judge? Answer: I have a very diverse legal background. Take criminal law for an example. Not only do I serve as a judge, but I prosecute crimes (I have been the City Prosecutor in Rose Hill for 12 years) as well as defend those charged with crimes (I have been a Public Defender in the City of Wichita for 17 years). I also practice in the areas of workers’ compensation, business, employment, real estate, contracts, and personal injury law as well as courtroom litigation. I have been endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police. Question: What is an important issue for judges? Answer: Will they be impartial and follow the law despite their personal beliefs. Judges are not legislators or governors—they take an oath to follow the law regardless of what they personally think of the law. Our courts must be free and independent—free from the influence of outside interests and independent from the judge’s personal beliefs. Question: Talk about your educational background. Answer: I was born and raised in Wichita. I graduated from Southeast High School in 1981. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and Business Administration from Bethel College in 1985. I graduated in 1987 with Dean’s Honors from Washburn University School of Law. I have practiced law in Wichita for 20 years. Question: In what capacity have you practiced law? Answer: I began as an associate in a small law firm. In 1995, I then started my own firm, Syrios Law Office, with my father who is also a lawyer. In June of 2006, I joined the firm of Martin and Churchill as Special Counsel. Question: Talk about your family. Answer: I have been married to Susan for 23 years. We have three beautiful boys: Justin (17), Connor (15) and Zach (12). Question: Any civic activities? Answer: Susan and I have been active members at First Evangelical Free Church for about 19 years. I am on the governing board at Central Christian Academy. I have served on the HopeNet, Inc. board of directors and resource council since 1996.

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Sedgwick County Judgeships

Eric Commer

2008-10-01 08:37:00

: What does a Sedgwick County District Court Judge do and what kind of cases do they handle? Answer: The Sedgwick County District Court is the state of Kansas court which handles all legal claims and criminal cases that are filed based upon the laws of the State of Kansas and are based upon events that occurred in Sedgwick County. A District Court Judge supervises both jury and judge trials to make sure trials and decisions are handled justly and fairly according to the law. In trials presented without a jury, the district court judge is the one who makes the decision applying the law to the facts presented in evidence. The types of cases cover a broad spectrum. The District Court decides most all legal cases based upon events that occurred in Sedgwick County concerning commission of a felony crime, divorce, paternity, child custody or child support disputes, auto accidents, malpractice and other personal injuries, landlord/tenant disputes, breach of contract, other civil wrongs, probate and estate division cases, adoptions, juvenile offenses and child in need of care cases. The Sedgwick County District Court also handles all traffic matters that occur within the county, but not inside a city’s limits. This list covers most, but not all cases. Question: What are the requirements for being a District Judge? Answer: The technical requirements to be a Sedgwick County District Court Judge are to be at least thirty years old, be an attorney licensed to practice law in Kansas and to be a resident of Sedgwick County while serving as Judge. Question: So, you are an attorney and you live in Sedgwick County? Answer: Yes. I am 52 years old. I obtained my license to practice law in 1980 after graduation from Washburn School of Law in Topeka. And except for time in college and law school, I have always lived in Sedgwick County. But beyond the technical requirements there are other qualifications that most voters will be concerned about – particularly: courtroom experience and respected character. Because a judge oversees the process of lawsuits from the time a case is filed through the trial and decision, it makes sense that judges should have personal experience being in the courtroom from their career prior to becoming a judge. Character is important because the manner in which a judge handles cases in court requires fair treatments of all persons – the parties, the witnesses, the jury, the attorneys and court personnel who are all involved in what are often high conflict battles. To maintain respect for our courts and the legal system, judges need to have a balance of patience and integrity and a capacity for stern judgment, fairness and at times mercy, depending on the facts of a case and the application of law. Question: What legal experience do you have for being a judge? Answer: I have been practicing law for 28 years in Sedgwick County and my practice has been litigation oriented requiring me to be in the courtroom every week. I have tried cases in every department of the Sedgwick County courts – criminal, family, civil, juvenile, probate and traffic. And I have handled or tried cases in district courts in at least ten other counties around Kansas. I also served for 20 years from 1985-2005 as a volunteer investigating ethics complaints filed against attorneys. I care that the whole legal process be untainted, trustworthy and respected by the public. In the past year, I started serving an appointment to the Kansas Supreme Court study committee on Self-Represented Litigants. This committee is evaluating what courts can do to balance sometimes competing interests of litigants, attorneys and judges. Our courts must be accessible to all, should encourage case presentation that is most effective for the parties and must provide for efficient use of the court’s time and resources. Question: Do you have other community experience beyond your legal practice? Answer: I have been a member of the Christian Legal Society (CLS) for 28 years and am a past president of the local chapter. The significant work of the local chapter is to provide free legal consultations in some of the poorer sections of Wichita in conjunction with the Salvation Army, World Impact Village and Hilltop Urban Church. I helped found that service and have participated almost monthly since its inception. I am also a past Elder at First Evangelical Free Church and volunteered there for 9 years in weekly youth ministry with junior and senior high students. Question: I have heard some people complain about “activist judges”. What is that complaint? Answer: Both the U.S. and Kansas Constitutions designed our federal and state governments to have three branches. The Legislative Branch (representatives and senators) has the responsibility of writing the law. The Executive Branch (Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State and their subordinates) is charged with enforcing the laws of the state. The Judicial Branch (appeals justices, district court judges and the courts) is entrusted with the responsibility of applying the law to the facts of a situation, which facts are often in dispute. Those complaining believe that some judges have by their “decisions” strayed from interpreting or applying the law to take on the role of also writing or rewriting new law. In a nutshell they are claiming that some judges have become one person legislatures – making new laws. Question: What do you think of that? Answer: I believe that judges should not be activists, but should apply the law according to its original intent when it was created by the legislature. It is a prime responsibility of judges to be students of the law to understand the language of the laws well and to seek to apply the law to conform to the purpose and intent of the legislature when they wrote the law. Judges should make their decisions based first upon the facts of the case and should follow the law regardless of their personal opinion about whether the law is good or bad or should be changed. That being said, there are some areas of the law that leave a great amount of discretion to the court in making a judgment call as to the best course for a decision within the bounds of the law. Within that realm of discretionary decision making every judge is affected at least in part by the personal experience and values which they personally hold. That is why the character and values that a judge brings to the courtroom are important. Question: How have your values been developed? Answer: I was raised in southwest Wichita by a father and mother who both grew up on farms. I was taught the value of hard work by their examples. My father worked 41 years for one of Wichita’s aircraft manufacturers in test engineering. My mother taught school for two years before devoting herself to raising three children and maintaining our family and home on a limited budget. Their examples also taught me to seek quality in all I do and to treat all people with respect. My parents also gave high priority to their faith in Christ – a faith which I personally adopted as my own as a young boy. So throughout my life, I have also sought to be a student of the Bible. That is the major source for my personal values. It teaches me: that all human life and every person is to be valued, that wrong conduct should be judged and that because all of us commit wrong, we must balance judgment at times with mercy and grace. Because Jesus claimed to die for all mankind, that act teaches me that I should value every man, woman and child. My personal faith is not something that I can impose on any one else. But it teaches me to love God, to seek excellence, to strive for personal integrity and to treat every person with value and respect. Question: If someone wanted to get more information about you or help with your campaign, how could they do

Answer: The Divisions are not geographical. The Divisions are simply position numbers. Every voter in Sedgwick County can vote for one judge for every Division. So, if you are a registered voter in Sedgwick County, you can vote for me. Question: What does a Sedgwick County District Court Judge do and what kind of cases do they handle? Answer: The Sedgwick County District Court is the state of Kansas court which handles all legal claims and criminal cases that are filed based upon the laws of the State of Kansas and are based upon events that occurred in Sedgwick County. A District Court Judge supervises both jury and judge trials to make sure trials and decisions are handled justly and fairly according to the law. In trials presented without a jury, the district court judge is the one who makes the decision applying the law to the facts presented in evidence. The types of cases cover a broad spectrum. The District Court decides most all legal cases based upon events that occurred in Sedgwick County concerning commission of a felony crime, divorce, paternity, child custody or child support disputes, auto accidents, malpractice and other personal injuries, landlord/tenant disputes, breach of contract, other civil wrongs, probate and estate division cases, adoptions, juvenile offenses and child in need of care cases. The Sedgwick County District Court also handles all traffic matters that occur within the county, but not inside a city’s limits. This list covers most, but not all cases. Question: What are the requirements for being a District Judge? Answer: The technical requirements to be a Sedgwick County District Court Judge are to be at least thirty years old, be an attorney licensed to practice law in Kansas and to be a resident of Sedgwick County while serving as Judge. Question: So, you are an attorney and you live in Sedgwick County? Answer: Yes. I am 52 years old. I obtained my license to practice law in 1980 after graduation from Washburn School of Law in Topeka. And except for time in college and law school, I have always lived in Sedgwick County. But beyond the technical requirements there are other qualifications that most voters will be concerned about – particularly: courtroom experience and respected character. Because a judge oversees the process of lawsuits from the time a case is filed through the trial and decision, it makes sense that judges should have personal experience being in the courtroom from their career prior to becoming a judge. Character is important because the manner in which a judge handles cases in court requires fair treatments of all persons – the parties, the witnesses, the jury, the attorneys and court personnel who are all involved in what are often high conflict battles. To maintain respect for our courts and the legal system, judges need to have a balance of patience and integrity and a capacity for stern judgment, fairness and at times mercy, depending on the facts of a case and the application of law. Question: What legal experience do you have for being a judge? Answer: I have been practicing law for 28 years in Sedgwick County and my practice has been litigation oriented requiring me to be in the courtroom every week. I have tried cases in every department of the Sedgwick County courts – criminal, family, civil, juvenile, probate and traffic. And I have handled or tried cases in district courts in at least ten other counties around Kansas. I also served for 20 years from 1985-2005 as a volunteer investigating ethics complaints filed against attorneys. I care that the whole legal process be untainted, trustworthy and respected by the public. In the past year, I started serving an appointment to the Kansas Supreme Court study committee on Self-Represented Litigants. This committee is evaluating what courts can do to balance sometimes competing interests of litigants, attorneys and judges. Our courts must be accessible to all, should encourage case presentation that is most effective for the parties and must provide for efficient use of the court’s time and resources. Question: Do you have other community experience beyond your legal practice? Answer: I have been a member of the Christian Legal Society (CLS) for 28 years and am a past president of the local chapter. The significant work of the local chapter is to provide free legal consultations in some of the poorer sections of Wichita in conjunction with the Salvation Army, World Impact Village and Hilltop Urban Church. I helped found that service and have participated almost monthly since its inception. I am also a past Elder at First Evangelical Free Church and volunteered there for 9 years in weekly youth ministry with junior and senior high students. Question: I have heard some people complain about “activist judges”. What is that complaint? Answer: Both the U.S. and Kansas Constitutions designed our federal and state governments to have three branches. The Legislative Branch (representatives and senators) has the responsibility of writing the law. The Executive Branch (Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State and their subordinates) is charged with enforcing the laws of the state. The Judicial Branch (appeals justices, district court judges and the courts) is entrusted with the responsibility of applying the law to the facts of a situation, which facts are often in dispute. Those complaining believe that some judges have by their “decisions” strayed from interpreting or applying the law to take on the role of also writing or rewriting new law. In a nutshell they are claiming that some judges have become one person legislatures – making new laws. Question: What do you think of that? Answer: I believe that judges should not be activists, but should apply the law according to its original intent when it was created by the legislature. It is a prime responsibility of judges to be students of the law to understand the language of the laws well and to seek to apply the law to conform to the purpose and intent of the legislature when they wrote the law. Judges should make their decisions based first upon the facts of the case and should follow the law regardless of their personal opinion about whether the law is good or bad or should be changed. That being said, there are some areas of the law that leave a great amount of discretion to the court in making a judgment call as to the best course for a decision within the bounds of the law. Within that realm of discretionary decision making every judge is affected at least in part by the personal experience and values which they personally hold. That is why the character and values that a judge brings to the courtroom are important. Question: How have your values been developed? Answer: I was raised in southwest Wichita by a father and mother who both grew up on farms. I was taught the value of hard work by their examples. My father worked 41 years for one of Wichita’s aircraft manufacturers in test engineering. My mother taught school for two years before devoting herself to raising three children and maintaining our family and home on a limited budget. Their examples also taught me to seek quality in all I do and to treat all people with respect. My parents also gave high priority to their faith in Christ – a faith which I personally adopted as my own as a young boy. So throughout my life, I have also sought to be a student of the Bible. That is the major source for my personal values. It teaches me: that all human life and every person is to be valued, that wrong conduct should be judged and that because all of us commit wrong, we must balance judgment at times with mercy and grace. Because Jesus claimed to die for all mankind, that act teaches me that I should value every man, woman and child. My personal faith is not something that I can impose on any one else. But it teaches me to love God, to seek excellence, to strive for personal integrity and to treat every person with value and respect. Question: If someone wanted to get more information about you or help with your campaign, how could they do that? Answer: I have a website in development at www.CommerForJudge.com or I can be reached by phone through 263-3154 or by email at CommerJudge28@cox.net .