Published: July 13, 2008 10:41 pm            

Take a close look at candidates

To the editor:

Some law students say their law professors gave them the following advice: “When the law is on your side, argue the law; when the facts are on your side, argue the facts, but when neither law nor fact is on your side, just argue strong and long — if you are getting paid.” Actually, that’s pretty good advice because when we hire a lawyer, we do want one who will work hard and win for us. The same can be said of politicians and those of us who vote for them; “We want a winner!”

At a recent political “meet the candidate” forum candidates for judge of Probate Court in Whitfield County offered reasons why voters should vote for them. Paraphrasing, what these folks seem to have said boils down to:

One wants the job because she is an experienced lawyer who loves the law. She will strictly and equally enforce the law regardless of an individual’s circumstances or identity. An “open door policy” bothers her. The possibility of a substantial pay cut from that of a practicing lawyer to that of a sitting judge is of no concern. Further, she wants to return something to the community.

One attended the University of Georgia and has had various dealings in financial matters. He just wants try his hand as judge and will figure out the details when he is elected.

One wants the job because she has successfully held positions of responsibility in Probate Court for the past 15 years, during which time she became a qualified paralegal at Dalton State College. She may serve only one term but that is of no concern because her focus is to fully and ethically enforce the law for the term she is elected to. Further, she sees the probate office’s mission to be that of serving the citizens of Dalton and Whitfield County in a non-intimidating manner. She enjoys helping people.

As winner of this very important race for judge of Probate Court, which of these is most likely to be a winner for Whitfield County’s citizens?

Voters of Whitfield County, the decision is in your hands. Choose wisely, but by all means exercise your right and privilege to vote next Tuesday.



Frank Barnes

Dalton

        

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