Candidate Biography (submitted by candidate):

I am 47 years old, married and have two children.  I was born in Charlotte under humble circumstances.  My father was a truck driver and my mother worked sales.  For most of the 1970's, my father worked sporadically due to industry downturns.  For several years my family received Food Stamps.  I was the first person in my father's family to attend college.

My mother taught me to treat others as I wished to be treated, to love my enemies, and to stand firm for my beliefs.  I have tried to live up to these ideals; her influence is apparent and I count as trusted friends' people of all faiths, colors, and political parties.

Upon graduation from Law School in 1991, I intended a career as a public defender or some area of public service.  As an Assistant Public Defender I spent two years appearing before Judge Boner and the late Judges Scarborough and McKnight.  I was very impressed with these jurists and quickly decided my aspiration was the Bench.   After 3 years as a public defender, I was offered a position in civil litigation.  Although I enjoyed my work, I was ready to accept a new challenge.  Four years later I joined my wife's practice and we served clients in various capacities.  I also became a District Court Arbitrator and ranked near the top in case resolution. 

In 2006 I ran for, and won, an open seat.  I had been approached to challenge sitting judges but was uncomfortable with replacing experienced jurists.  I have presided in all Courts except family and juvenile courts.  I am proud of changes I made in child support court which have increased the amount of money collected. I stay abreast of the law and treat all who come before me in a patient, dignified and fair manner. 

Very early in my career I felt called to be a Judge.  I realized that becoming a Judge required a great deal of experience and it was truly an opportunity for public service.  I had the discernment that I needed to get experience in most areas of District Court in order to effectively serve the people of Mecklenburg County.  I spent the next 14 years getting as much experience in District Court I could by practicing in various courts, including 8 years in private practice.

Since taking the oath of office I have presided in Criminal Trial Court, Civil Court, Criminal and Civil Domestic Violence Court, Child Support Enforcement Court, Treatment Court, Criminal and Traffic Administrative Court, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Courts, Involuntary Commitment Court, and First Appearance and Bond Hearing Court. In each of these venues I have presided with dignity and compassion for the people who appear before me. In almost 100% of the cases I hear, my decision is final so I try my utmost to make sure that each party and attorney realize they have had my complete attention and a full opportunity to be heard. I also take the time to explain the legal basis for my decision to the non-prevailing party when appropriate.

My passion is to see that justice is always done and that the laws are followed. Every day I realize that the decisions I make will have profound effects on the lives of ordinary people and often within our community as a whole. It is an awesome responsibility that I have been given and I will continue to treat each decision I make with great deference to everyone involved. It is my sincere desire to continue to serve the people of North Carolina with strength, fairness, innovation and without favoritism.