vOTE FOR

I earned my undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan–Dearborn and my law degree from the University of Toledo College of Law. I began my career in public service as an attorney in the Wayne County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, later serving in the Kalkaska County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, and beginning in 2000, in the Kalamazoo County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney.

I served as sole counsel in more than 150 trials, including cases involving murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, first-degree criminal sexual conduct, drug offenses, and weapons-related charges. In Kalamazoo County, I also handled more than 1,000 civil asset forfeiture and nuisance abatement cases and over 350 appellate matters, including arguments before the Michigan Court of Appeals and the Michigan Supreme Court.

In 2023, I was appointed Magistrate for the 8th District Court for the County of Kalamazoo. I have presided over several hundred traffic and ordinance violation hearings, and small claims hearings. I have also filled in for judges in handling arraignments on felony and misdemeanor charges, where I set bail and bond conditions for the protection of the community.

I have reviewed and authorized arrest warrants and search warrants. In my 30 years as Attorney and Magistrate I have never had a conviction overturned or been subject to any disciplinary action by the Attorney Grievance Commission or Judicial Tenure Commission.

I have attended training conferences and webinars related to the practice of law and have exceeded the required minimum continuing education requirements for judicial officers. 

In addition to my work for citizens of Kalamazoo County, I have taken active roles in State Bar of Michigan leadership. I have served for years in the State Bar of Michigan Representative Assembly, the policy making body of the State Bar.

I currently serve as chair of the Representative Assembly Nominating and Awards Committee. I was appointed and served for many years on the State Bar of Michigan Criminal Jurisprudence & Practice Committee, as member, co-chair, and advisor, helping shape the law and access to justice at a state-wide level.

I also served for many years on the State Bar of Michigan Standing Committee on Judicial Qualifications, helping vet candidates seeking appointment by the last two Governors of the State of Michigan to judicial vacancies in the many District, Circuit, Probate Courts, all over the state, as well as Court of Appeals and Michigan Supreme Court. 

With Judge Santoni’s retirement at the end of the year and a State Court Administrative Office report indicating the 8th District Court is operating at 119% of the recommended maximum caseload, it is important that the next District Court Judge be able to hit the ground running.

I have a lifelong history of measured, steady, and ethical administration of justice for Kalamazoo County. I have extensive experience deciding cases fairly and treating all litigants with dignity and respect. Through my knowledge, expertise, temperament, and years of legal practice, along with my familiarity with the programs, processes, and personnel of the 8th District Court, I am well prepared to serve effectively from day one. I believe I am the right person for this position.

I respectfully ask for your support and your vote to continue serving the people of Kalamazoo County with fairness, integrity, and respect.