Candidate Biography (submitted by candidate):

I am a graduate of Marshall University with bachelor's and master's degrees in political science.  Following my years in the United States Navy and including service in Vietnam, I received my doctor of jurisprudence from West Virginia University.  In 1977 I joined the West Virginia law firm of Shaffer & Shaffer where I remained for 25 years, including 16 years as the firm's senior partner.  During that time I was President of the West Virginia State Bar, a 13 year member and three- term President of the West Virginia State Board of Education.  I also served 5 years in the American Bar Association House of Delegates.

My wife and I moved to Brunswick County in 2002 and I've practiced law since then as a sole practitioner in Shallotte.  I am the Current Chairman of the Board of Communities in Schools and serve on the Brunswick Community College Foundation.  In April 2010 I was chosen by the Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce as Citizen of the Year.

The Clerk of Superior Court is a constitutional office. The primary issue in this election is which candidate will most effectively carry out the constitutional and statutory mandates of the position. The Clerk must thoroughly research legal issues and provide sound rulings based on facts and law.  My 33 years as a lawyer and my leadership in bar-related activities speak to my ability to serve most effectively in this capacity.

My law practice has included trial work, real estate, adoptions and estate work, all critical areas within the Clerk's office.  I've been a lawyer-leader at the national, state and local levels.  As a financial manager I've worked with billion dollar budgets.  Having tried, settled and resolved thousands of lawsuits, I'm familiar with the workings of courts.

Based on a lifetime of preparation for this position, I earnestly ask for and seek the support of the voters in Brunswick County.