Candidate Biography (submitted by candidate):

Education: University of North Carolina at Chapel, B.S., 1982; Mercer University School of Law, J.D., 1993; and University of North Carolina School of Government, Juvenile Court Judge certification, 2002.

Experience: District Court Judge since February 1998; and Certified Juvenile Court Judge since February 2002.

Memberships: North Carolina District Court Judges Association, National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, Court Improvement Project Steering Committee member.

Endorsement: North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys.

Honors and Awards: Cabarrus County Business and Professional Women- 2006 Woman of the Year and Recipient of the Federal Court Improvement Project Grant- 2007 to present.

Personal: widow of the late James C. Johnson, Jr., attorney; and two adult children.

Since February 1998, I have heard thousands of cases involving child custody, child support, marital property, domestic violence and criminal matters. Therefore, the work I do directly affects the lives of litigants appearing before me. I apply the law strictly as it is written by the legislature. My decisions are made fairly and consistently, without regard to personal agenda, political affiliation, race or gender.

I believe efficient case management is essential to justice. Last year, my three colleagues and I completed over 50,000 cases. The National Center for State Court Judges has determined that Cabarrus County needs six judges to handle this caseload. Despite the overwhelming odds, I do my part to keep Cabarrus County at the top of the state in court case completion. I limit the number of times a criminal case can be delayed. I believe that victims should not have to appear repeatedly in court to receive justice. I also ensure that civil litigants have their cases heard in a timely manner and that my orders are filed promptly.

I believe that Cabarrus County residents have a right to expect a safe community in which to live. The legislature enacts laws to protect our neighborhoods and communities and it is up to judges to enforce these laws. Being tough on crime is not judicial activism, it is judicial responsibility. I am proud that Cabarrus County has been a leader in the enforcement of alcohol related offenses since 1997. According to 2008 statistics compiled by the NC Administrative Office of the Courts and the NC Department of Motor Vehicles, Cabarrus County conviction rates for DWIs continues to be higher than the state average.

With your support, I will continue to serve you with experience, integrity and fairness.