Vote Lanese and Skinder for collaborative, innovative judges

Having served as a Thurston County Superior Court Judge for 24 years, I am keenly aware of the attributes it takes to be a successful Superior Court Judge. Some are more obvious, such as intelligence, competency, even temperament, and a hard work ethic. Others are less obvious but equally important. In particular, our Superior Court Judges must be collaborative team-players, as they are required to work together not only with the other judges on the Superior Court, but also with other members of the justice system, government, and our community.

I have worked with both Chris Lanese and John Skinder, candidates for Thurston County Superior Court Positions Number 1 and 7, respectively. They have the attributes it takes to be successful in fairly and efficiently serving the citizens, litigants and attorneys of Thurston County and our state. Both are capable, hard-working attorneys with great work ethics. Importantly, both have demonstrated a willingness to be innovative and collaborative judicial team-players.

The drive for innovation is critically needed now as our courts are continuously being tasked to do more with less, given ongoing budget constraints. Thurston County’s courts have long been leaders in judicial innovation, including the establishment of therapeutic courts, such as Drug Court and other therapeutic court programs. These programs have proven to be cost effective alternatives to confinement by reducing costs and by greatly reducing recidivism. Chris and John have the skills and commitment to continue and enhance such innovations, and they have my support this November.

This story was originally published October 18, 2016 at 5:15 PM with the headline "Vote Lanese and Skinder for collaborative, innovative judges."