Judicial Philosophy
"In these challenging and difficult times, we must recommit ourselves to maintaining the independent judiciary that the Framers sought to establish."
Justice Sandra Day O'Connor
As a District Court Judge, I work hard to provide litigants fair and reasoned decisions in a timely manner. I endeavor to apply the law equally, without favoritism or bias. Your race, gender, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status should not affect the outcome of your case.
I am running for the North Carolina Court of Appeals because I believe our nation has forgotten the important role judges play in our society. Judges are not politicians. Unlike your elected representatives in the legislature, your judges take an oath to stand apart from politics and partisan ideas. We do not pass laws or advocate for causes or individuals. But we do protect the constitutional and statutory rights of those who appear in our courtrooms. We must do this without bending to political attacks, special interest, or public opinion. I am running because I believe in the rule of law, and I believe that an independent judiciary is the most crucial piece of a lasting democracy.
Judges have a greater responsibility to serve our neighbors and increase the public's access to the justice system. I have worked with various organizations that provide legal assistance and resources, and I helped create sample legal forms and informational packets for litigants in the courthouse without attorneys. I currently serve on the Advisory Board for Wake County's new Legal Support Center. Throughout my career, I have been involved with groups and organizations that assist women and families, promote diversity in institutions, and support the advancement of women in the legal profession.