There is no Democrat in the race, so Republican primary between Jay Plotkin and Angela Corey is open to all voters and whoever wins will replace Harry Shorstein, who is not seeking reelection.
Angela Corey
AGE: 53
FAMILY: Parents: Thomas and Lorraine Corey. Siblings: Susan Corey; Thomas S. Corey IV and wife Tammie Corey, Nephew Thomas S. Corey, IV, Niece Renee Corey; Cathy Corey; Marlo Corey Hunt and husband Patrick Hunt, Niece: Abigail Hunt.
OCCUPATION: I was appointed as an Assistant State Attorney in November of 1981 in the Fourth Judicial Circuit by Ed Austin, State Attorney, then reappointed by Harry Shorstein, State Attorney, and served in that capacity until November of 2006. I was appointed as an Assistant State Attorney in February of 2007 by John Tanner, State Attorney, and serve in that capacity to date. (I am currently on leave without pay.)
EDUCATION: PRIMARY EDUCATION: Hogan Spring Glen Elementary School,Jacksonville, FL, Grades 1 to 6; Southside Junior High School, Jacksonville, Florida, Grades 7 to 9; Englewood Senior High School, Jacksonville, Florida, Grades 10 to 12. FORMAL EDUCATION: Florida State University, Bachelor of Science, June 1976; University of Florida, College of Law, Juris Doctor, December 1979.
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: [No response]
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
The top three issues in this race are:
The appalling number of violent crimes, especially the murders in Duval County, is the most critical issue facing our circuit. Immediate, focused, and aggressive prosecution of violent criminals and repeat offenders is vital to stopping this revolving door of crime. Better handling of repeat misdemeanor offenders must also be a priority.
A critical issue in our circuit is the lack of public trust in the State Attorney’s Office. I will restore the trust of the public by prosecuting cases that are constitutionally and legally sound; working with law enforcement and our city leaders, not against them; and by working with our intervention and prevention specialists without trying to control those efforts. Most importantly, I pledge to prosecute with a fair and even hand regardless of the race, gender or social standing of the offender or the victim.
The Shorstein / Plotkin administration has failed in its initiatives to prevent juvenile and young adult violent crime. A major factor in this is their continued shuffling of attorney's from one case load to another costing the taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars in "taxpayer billable dollars"
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
The resounding endorsements I received from Sheriffs Rutherford, Beseler, and Seagraves, as well as all of the law enforcement groups in our Circuit are based their personal knowledge of my 26 years of courtroom performance and legal expertise. When I take office in January of 2009, I will have an immediate, positive working relationship within the law enforcement community. With that positive energy and stability, our law enforcement team will be best equipped to fight the crime that is currently threatening to consume our community
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
I want to be remembered as a State Attorney who cared passionately about this community, who created synergy with both law enforcement and our community leaders and worked hard to restore justice thus eliminating the nickname “murder capital of Florida”.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.angelacorey.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jay Plotkin
AGE: 47 years of age, Born June 8, 1961
FAMILY: Wife of 18 years, three children ages 15, 12, and 9
OCCUPATION: Chief Assistant State Attorney
EDUCATION: Law: University of Florida College of Law, Gainesville, Florida Juris Doctor; May 1986. Pre-Law: University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida Bachelor of Arts in Political Science; University of Florida; December 1982
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: N/A – I’m a prosecutor not a politician
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
First, the senseless murders and crimes committed against our citizens is the most pressing issue facing our community today. First and foremost it is the job of the top prosecutor to aggressively prosecute murders. In the last 18 months, our office as taken a record number of homicide cases to trial with a 96% conviction rate. We have and will continue to seek appropriate sentences for these murderers. That is why our State Attorney’s Office leads the state in the number of convicted murderers on death row. I support the death penalty and will continue to seek it when appropriate.
If we want to rid our great city of the title “the homicide capital of Florida” we must aggressively prosecute chronic and violent offenders and proactively work to keep our children out of trouble. This is why I am the clear choice to be our next State Attorney. I am the only candidate with a proven record of tough prosecution and successful intervention with our youth.
Finally, we must listen to our community. If we want our citizens to cooperate with law enforcement, they must know and trust law enforcement. This can only be accomplished through open and honest dialogue. I will utilize the many relationships that I have throughout our communities to assist in these efforts.
Second and third, there is no more important issue than assuring that our families are safe from violent crime. I assure the people of Clay, Duval, and Nassau counties that I will spend every waking moment working to reduce crime in our community.
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I will continue to serve the people as a tough prosecutor and an effective competent leader of the State Attorney’s Office. I am the only candidate who has tried significant trials while simultaneously managing the 100 lawyers, 277 professional staff and the State Attorney’s Offices $24 million budget.
As a leader and representative of the people in the courtroom, I am an accomplished trial lawyer. I have personally handled over 90 trials including 25 murder trials with a 90% conviction rate. I have put 5 murderers on death row. I will continue to lead by example by personally prosecuting the most significant cases in our community.
I have always been and will continue to be a leader in this community in the efforts to prevent and prosecute juvenile crime. As a national leader in this area, I have implemented programs that have led to a 45% decrease in juvenile crime. We must continue to do more.
As a community, we must demand aggressive prosecution of habitual and violent juveniles. I have personally made the very difficult decision to prosecute more than 2500 juveniles as adults since 1993 and will continue to do so when we must. I am a tough no nonsense prosecutor who also understands the importance of prevention and early intervention. My opponent continues to say that leading efforts to reduce juvenile crime is not a primary role for the State Attorney. She could not be more wrong.
I have spent my entire professional career aggressively prosecuting chronic and violent offenders, from those who abuse our children, to murderers and habitual offenders. As a division chief in our repeat offender court, I went to Tallahassee to fight to maintain the tools we need to put habitual offenders in prison for lengthy sentences. As Chief Assistant State Attorney for the past 9 years, I prioritized our resources so that we could provide the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office with two of our best prosecutors as a part of Operation Safe Streets (OSS). OSS has proven to be a tremendous tool in our efforts to protect this community from violent offenders. Working together with the Sheriff’s office we create strong cases that stand up in court. Because of our joint efforts these offenders are serving nearly 1300 years in prison. I pledge to triple the number of lawyers working in this important area with the Sheriff.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
This is a critical time in our community. Politics must be put aside to solve the pressing issues. I have said often I am a prosecutor, not a politician. This is not just a phrase it defines who I am. At the end of the day when I go home to my wife and three children and know that I have done all I can do to make this a safer place for my family and the families in our community then I know it has been a good day, that is what I would want to be remembered for.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.votejayplotkin.com
CIRCUIT JUDGE - Group 11
This is a non-partisan race between Adrian Soud and Mark Hulsey.
Mark Hulsey
OFFICE: Circuit Court Judge, Group 11
AGE: 58
FAMILY: Married to Donna Kellam Hulsey; have raised four children and have 5 grandchildren.
OCCUPATION: Attorney in Private Practice for 25 years, specializing in Civil Law; a court recognized expert in child custody evaluations.
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree from the University of Florida; Master's in History from the University of South California; a Juris Doctorate from George Mason University
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: This is my first campaign.
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE THREE TOP ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
As the Florida Times Union pointed out when they endorsed my candidacy, I have the overall life and legal experience that is needed on the bench. Wisdom comes with age and experience, and I have that.
As a judicial candidate, neither I nor my opponent can "make" law, or promise to change the law. It's only the legislature that can do that.
As a judge, you swear to uphold the laws of the State. I'm prepared to do just that.
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THAT OTHERS IN THIS RACE CAN'T?
I think I am the better candidate because of the diversity of my legal and life experiences that enable me to know the law, and understand compassion. I have worked in all areas of civil law and have had 200 trials. I have traveled all over the country as a Court recognized expert in Child Custody Evaluations, having performed over 100 for the Court. I have been a certified family mediator for eight years. I also believe that I have a variety of life experiences, including serving in the military, volunteering with the Duval County School Board, pro bono work through the Christian Legal Society’s project with Legal Aid and various service and business groups. It's this diversity of life and legal experience that will enable me to be the kind of judge our community deserves.
WHAT WOULD YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
When I leave office, I hope that people will remember that I worked hard to guarantee that everyone was treated with respect; that everyone was treated fairly and had their day in court; that I applied the law compassionate and justly.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: hulsey4judge.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adrian G. Soud
AGE: 34
FAMILY: Wife - Marcie; Daughters - Emily and Elizabeth
OCCUPATION: Attorney
EDUCATION: Bachelor's Degree, University of Florida; Juris Doctor, cum laude, Stetson University College of Law
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Never previously held elected office
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
Crime – The court must be meticulous in fulfilling its role of protecting public safety. While always ensuring the constitutional guarantees of an accused, when the burden of proof has been met and the defendant found guilty, either because of verdict or plea agreement, a judge must impose sentences that will ensure the public safety and protect our families. Sentences should be intended to not only protect against often escalating patterns of criminal activity from a particular accused, but act as a deterrent to other potential criminals. Additionally, the judge is vested with the prerogative to reject plea agreements arrived at by the prosecutor and defendant if a particular agreement and the sentence, or any part thereof, does not adequately protect the public. Cases of any nature, and particularly criminal cases, cannot simply be processed so mechanically and with the attitude that this is the way we’ve always done it. Cases should be brought to trial and let juries decide the guilt or innocence. Each case must have a thorough review.
Serious Family Issues – There is rampant incidences of domestic violence and cases of abused, neglected and/or abandoned children. Our society and culture is feeling the results with increased violent crimes, single parents living at or below the poverty level, and pervasive cases of children performing at failure levels in schools in an academic environment where behavior violations are seriously impacting the ability of teachers to teach and children to learn in a safe school setting.
This area of the law is where the Court can be proactive without being activist. All community resources, private and public, should be utilized to penetrate this culture of dysfunction. If resources are available and provided, once again there must be accountability required on the part of service providers and the families. Government cannot raise children. Parents do. The Court, however, can let it be known in no uncertain terms that the level of expectation must be met. The next generation will require it.
Effective Case Management - As a judge, I will be committed to working hard and ensuring cases move through the court as efficiently as possible. This must not come at the expense of a thorough review of each and every case pending before the court. People must have adequate time to prepare their case. However, justice delayed is justice denied.
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I believe I have the assets the public would expect their Circuit Judge to exercise: broad and balanced experience; a thorough work ethic; patience in listening to people with serious personal, family or financial concerns; the ability to manage a large case load so that cases can move through the system with promptness bringing cases to a conclusion; bringing criminal cases to jury trial rather than approve plea negotiated sentences that are good for the defendant and poor for the public safety. My world view and philosophy is what I've seen written, that the Founders intended the Constitution to be a vault where our principles of government were deposited for safe keeping, not a pantry where those principles are used, misused and\or modified according to the judge's appetite.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
That I discharged the duties of the Court in a manner of unimpeached integrity, always remaining committed to making rulings on the law and evidence alone without preference for any person for any reason. That I ruled in a manner to protect our families and the public at large from criminals. Finally, that I remained humble, always embracing a judge's limited role in our constitutional form of government and never legislating from the bench.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.soudforjudge.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mark Hulsey
The incumbent in this seat. Channel 4 has not received a response from this candidate.
CIRCUIT JUDGE - Group 28
This is a non-partisan race between Virginia Norton and Rick Buttner.
Rick Buttner
AGE: 40
FAMILY: Wife of 16 years, Sharon, and two children, Charlotte and Nolan
OCCUPATION: Attorney. Partner: Hamilton and Buttner
EDUCATION: Valdosta State University Bachelor of Arts 1986-1990. Cumberland School of Law Juris Doctor 1992-1995.
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: [No response]
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
Experience – Circuit judges must have the breadth and depth of experience to be ready from day one. As someone who has been a prosecutor, civil trial advocate, family law attorney, and commercial lawyer, I am the only Group 28 candidate who has practiced in each of the areas where a circuit judge presides – and the only candidate with significant jury trial experience.
Law Enforcement – As an Assistant State Attorney in Duval and Nassau Counties, I prosecuted criminals, represented the interests of crime victims, and worked hard to make our streets safe. Police and firefighter associations in Duval, Clay, and Nassau Counties have endorsed me for Circuit Judge in Group 28. Our public safety officers believe that I am the best qualified and most experienced candidate.
Family – Circuit judges are often called upon to handle difficult family matters like divorce and child custody. I am the only candidate in this race who has practiced family law. As a husband of 16 years and the father of two children, I understand the importance of family and have tried to represent my family law clients with the sensitivity and good judgment that they deserve. I will do the same in family law cases as a circuit judge.
HOW DO YOU THINK YOU COULD HELP VOTERS IN A WAY OTHERS IN THIS RACE CAN'T?
As the only candidate in the race who has practiced in each of the areas over which a Circuit Judge presides – criminal law, civil and commercial matters, family law, juvenile court, and probate – I will bring unique experience to the bench. As an Assistant State Attorney, I prosecuted thousands of defendants and conducted dozens of trials, making me the only candidate in this race with criminal law and significant jury trial experience. In private practice, I have litigated a wide variety of civil cases, including business disputes. I have also executed the same types of real estate and business transactions that sometimes end up in circuit court litigation, which gives me a keen understanding of many of the issues that will come before me as a Circuit Judge.
WHAT WOULD YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
I hope people remember Rick Buttner as a firm but fair circuit judge who followed the law, served with integrity, and never lost sight of the real people whose lives are significantly impacted by litigation. I also hope they remember me as a no-nonsense judge who moved cases as quickly as possible because he understood that justice delayed can easily become justice denied.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.RickButtner.com
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Virginia Norton
AGE: 36
FAMILY: Gloria and Ray Norton, Parents; Hamilton Norton, Brother
OCCUPATION: Assistant General Counsel, City of Jacksonville
As an Assistant General Counsel for the City of Jacksonville, I serve the Consolidated City of Jacksonville and its respective agencies. My clients include the Duval County School Board and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. In addition, I also represent deputies with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office who are sued in their individual capacity. I maintain an active calendar in State, Federal, Appellate, and Administrative courts.
In February 2006, I was named the City of Jacksonville’s lead attorney in defending section 674.502, Jacksonville Municipal Code (“Sexual Predator Residency Restriction Ordinance). Over the past, two years, I have litigated this matter with prosecutors from the Office of the State Attorney. This Ordinance restricts where sexual predators may live with regard to our children.
EDUCATION: University of Virginia, Bachelor of Arts Degree, Rhetoric and Communications Studies, 1994. University of Florida College of Law, Juris Doctor, 1997. Post-Baccalaureate Classes, University of North Florida Coggin College of Business, 2000.
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Special Master for the City of Jacksonville- January 2006 to present- I have presided over three thousand (3000) hearings concerning the Jacksonville Municipal Code.
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
Experience- The Fourth Judicial Circuit faces a backlog of cases as well as the pressure of budget cuts. Consequently, the next Circuit Court Judge needs to be able to hit the ground running on the first day. Relying on my experience as a Special Master for the City of Jacksonville, I will be able to move cases to completion while balancing efficiency with common sense, fairness, and adherence to the law. Having gotten my first job at the age of 13, I understand the importance of hard work and being industrious with limited resources.
Public Safety- As a victim of a violent crime myself and as a lawyer for Jacksonville Sheriff John Rutherford, I know firsthand the need for public safety.As a Circuit Court Judge, it will be my priority to act in accordance with the law to keep Northeast Florida safe.
Values- A Circuit Court Judge should be an individual who possesses the strength, integrity, and humility to hold such a crucial position. I have dedicated my personal and professional life to serving the citizens of Northeast Florida.It is my pledge to remain a humble, public servant if elected as Circuit Court Judge.
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
As a Special Master for the City of Jacksonville, I have already presided over three thousand (3000) hearings. I am the only candidate in this race with this level of experience in making the tough decisions that Circuit Court Judges make. I am also the only candidate who TODAY works with prosecutors in protecting our children from criminals. As the City of Jacksonville's lead attorney in protecting the Sexual Predator Residency Restriction Ordinance, I fight for our children. Although I have the experience of private, legal practice, I chose, and still do choose, to make the children and families of this community as the focus of my legal career. My commitment to public safety, especially with regard to children, will help our community be a safer and better place to live and raise a family. I have also appeared in the County Court, Circuit Court, First District Court of Appeals, and Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. This experience shows a proven, track record for addressing some of Northeast Florida's greatest problems. Finally, my volunteer service brings a unique perspective to the bench. Whether as a member of the Justice Coalition Board or the Women's Board of Wolfson Children's Hospital, I have dedicated myself to public safety and children.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
I hope to be remembered for being a Judge who made Northeast Florida a safer and better place to live and raise a family. I also hope to be remembered for being a hard working, public servant who put her community's needs before her own. As a Circuit Court Judge, I will be a fair but tough Judge who treats all people with respect and dignity.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.vote-virginia.net
Angela Corey
AGE: 53
FAMILY: Parents: Thomas and Lorraine Corey. Siblings: Susan Corey; Thomas S. Corey IV and wife Tammie Corey, Nephew Thomas S. Corey, IV, Niece Renee Corey; Cathy Corey; Marlo Corey Hunt and husband Patrick Hunt, Niece: Abigail Hunt.
OCCUPATION: I was appointed as an Assistant State Attorney in November of 1981 in the Fourth Judicial Circuit by Ed Austin, State Attorney, then reappointed by Harry Shorstein, State Attorney, and served in that capacity until November of 2006. I was appointed as an Assistant State Attorney in February of 2007 by John Tanner, State Attorney, and serve in that capacity to date. (I am currently on leave without pay.)
EDUCATION: PRIMARY EDUCATION: Hogan Spring Glen Elementary School,Jacksonville, FL, Grades 1 to 6; Southside Junior High School, Jacksonville, Florida, Grades 7 to 9; Englewood Senior High School, Jacksonville, Florida, Grades 10 to 12. FORMAL EDUCATION: Florida State University, Bachelor of Science, June 1976; University of Florida, College of Law, Juris Doctor, December 1979.
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: [No response]
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
The top three issues in this race are:
The appalling number of violent crimes, especially the murders in Duval County, is the most critical issue facing our circuit. Immediate, focused, and aggressive prosecution of violent criminals and repeat offenders is vital to stopping this revolving door of crime. Better handling of repeat misdemeanor offenders must also be a priority.
A critical issue in our circuit is the lack of public trust in the State Attorney’s Office. I will restore the trust of the public by prosecuting cases that are constitutionally and legally sound; working with law enforcement and our city leaders, not against them; and by working with our intervention and prevention specialists without trying to control those efforts. Most importantly, I pledge to prosecute with a fair and even hand regardless of the race, gender or social standing of the offender or the victim.
The Shorstein / Plotkin administration has failed in its initiatives to prevent juvenile and young adult violent crime. A major factor in this is their continued shuffling of attorney's from one case load to another costing the taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars in "taxpayer billable dollars"
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
The resounding endorsements I received from Sheriffs Rutherford, Beseler, and Seagraves, as well as all of the law enforcement groups in our Circuit are based their personal knowledge of my 26 years of courtroom performance and legal expertise. When I take office in January of 2009, I will have an immediate, positive working relationship within the law enforcement community. With that positive energy and stability, our law enforcement team will be best equipped to fight the crime that is currently threatening to consume our community
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
I want to be remembered as a State Attorney who cared passionately about this community, who created synergy with both law enforcement and our community leaders and worked hard to restore justice thus eliminating the nickname “murder capital of Florida”.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.angelacorey.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jay Plotkin
AGE: 47 years of age, Born June 8, 1961
FAMILY: Wife of 18 years, three children ages 15, 12, and 9
OCCUPATION: Chief Assistant State Attorney
EDUCATION: Law: University of Florida College of Law, Gainesville, Florida Juris Doctor; May 1986. Pre-Law: University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida Bachelor of Arts in Political Science; University of Florida; December 1982
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: N/A – I’m a prosecutor not a politician
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
First, the senseless murders and crimes committed against our citizens is the most pressing issue facing our community today. First and foremost it is the job of the top prosecutor to aggressively prosecute murders. In the last 18 months, our office as taken a record number of homicide cases to trial with a 96% conviction rate. We have and will continue to seek appropriate sentences for these murderers. That is why our State Attorney’s Office leads the state in the number of convicted murderers on death row. I support the death penalty and will continue to seek it when appropriate.
If we want to rid our great city of the title “the homicide capital of Florida” we must aggressively prosecute chronic and violent offenders and proactively work to keep our children out of trouble. This is why I am the clear choice to be our next State Attorney. I am the only candidate with a proven record of tough prosecution and successful intervention with our youth.
Finally, we must listen to our community. If we want our citizens to cooperate with law enforcement, they must know and trust law enforcement. This can only be accomplished through open and honest dialogue. I will utilize the many relationships that I have throughout our communities to assist in these efforts.
Second and third, there is no more important issue than assuring that our families are safe from violent crime. I assure the people of Clay, Duval, and Nassau counties that I will spend every waking moment working to reduce crime in our community.
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I will continue to serve the people as a tough prosecutor and an effective competent leader of the State Attorney’s Office. I am the only candidate who has tried significant trials while simultaneously managing the 100 lawyers, 277 professional staff and the State Attorney’s Offices $24 million budget.
As a leader and representative of the people in the courtroom, I am an accomplished trial lawyer. I have personally handled over 90 trials including 25 murder trials with a 90% conviction rate. I have put 5 murderers on death row. I will continue to lead by example by personally prosecuting the most significant cases in our community.
I have always been and will continue to be a leader in this community in the efforts to prevent and prosecute juvenile crime. As a national leader in this area, I have implemented programs that have led to a 45% decrease in juvenile crime. We must continue to do more.
As a community, we must demand aggressive prosecution of habitual and violent juveniles. I have personally made the very difficult decision to prosecute more than 2500 juveniles as adults since 1993 and will continue to do so when we must. I am a tough no nonsense prosecutor who also understands the importance of prevention and early intervention. My opponent continues to say that leading efforts to reduce juvenile crime is not a primary role for the State Attorney. She could not be more wrong.
I have spent my entire professional career aggressively prosecuting chronic and violent offenders, from those who abuse our children, to murderers and habitual offenders. As a division chief in our repeat offender court, I went to Tallahassee to fight to maintain the tools we need to put habitual offenders in prison for lengthy sentences. As Chief Assistant State Attorney for the past 9 years, I prioritized our resources so that we could provide the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office with two of our best prosecutors as a part of Operation Safe Streets (OSS). OSS has proven to be a tremendous tool in our efforts to protect this community from violent offenders. Working together with the Sheriff’s office we create strong cases that stand up in court. Because of our joint efforts these offenders are serving nearly 1300 years in prison. I pledge to triple the number of lawyers working in this important area with the Sheriff.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
This is a critical time in our community. Politics must be put aside to solve the pressing issues. I have said often I am a prosecutor, not a politician. This is not just a phrase it defines who I am. At the end of the day when I go home to my wife and three children and know that I have done all I can do to make this a safer place for my family and the families in our community then I know it has been a good day, that is what I would want to be remembered for.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.votejayplotkin.com
CIRCUIT JUDGE - Group 11
This is a non-partisan race between Adrian Soud and Mark Hulsey.
Mark Hulsey
OFFICE: Circuit Court Judge, Group 11
AGE: 58
FAMILY: Married to Donna Kellam Hulsey; have raised four children and have 5 grandchildren.
OCCUPATION: Attorney in Private Practice for 25 years, specializing in Civil Law; a court recognized expert in child custody evaluations.
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree from the University of Florida; Master's in History from the University of South California; a Juris Doctorate from George Mason University
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: This is my first campaign.
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE THREE TOP ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
As the Florida Times Union pointed out when they endorsed my candidacy, I have the overall life and legal experience that is needed on the bench. Wisdom comes with age and experience, and I have that.
As a judicial candidate, neither I nor my opponent can "make" law, or promise to change the law. It's only the legislature that can do that.
As a judge, you swear to uphold the laws of the State. I'm prepared to do just that.
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THAT OTHERS IN THIS RACE CAN'T?
I think I am the better candidate because of the diversity of my legal and life experiences that enable me to know the law, and understand compassion. I have worked in all areas of civil law and have had 200 trials. I have traveled all over the country as a Court recognized expert in Child Custody Evaluations, having performed over 100 for the Court. I have been a certified family mediator for eight years. I also believe that I have a variety of life experiences, including serving in the military, volunteering with the Duval County School Board, pro bono work through the Christian Legal Society’s project with Legal Aid and various service and business groups. It's this diversity of life and legal experience that will enable me to be the kind of judge our community deserves.
WHAT WOULD YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
When I leave office, I hope that people will remember that I worked hard to guarantee that everyone was treated with respect; that everyone was treated fairly and had their day in court; that I applied the law compassionate and justly.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: hulsey4judge.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adrian G. Soud
AGE: 34
FAMILY: Wife - Marcie; Daughters - Emily and Elizabeth
OCCUPATION: Attorney
EDUCATION: Bachelor's Degree, University of Florida; Juris Doctor, cum laude, Stetson University College of Law
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Never previously held elected office
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
Crime – The court must be meticulous in fulfilling its role of protecting public safety. While always ensuring the constitutional guarantees of an accused, when the burden of proof has been met and the defendant found guilty, either because of verdict or plea agreement, a judge must impose sentences that will ensure the public safety and protect our families. Sentences should be intended to not only protect against often escalating patterns of criminal activity from a particular accused, but act as a deterrent to other potential criminals. Additionally, the judge is vested with the prerogative to reject plea agreements arrived at by the prosecutor and defendant if a particular agreement and the sentence, or any part thereof, does not adequately protect the public. Cases of any nature, and particularly criminal cases, cannot simply be processed so mechanically and with the attitude that this is the way we’ve always done it. Cases should be brought to trial and let juries decide the guilt or innocence. Each case must have a thorough review.
Serious Family Issues – There is rampant incidences of domestic violence and cases of abused, neglected and/or abandoned children. Our society and culture is feeling the results with increased violent crimes, single parents living at or below the poverty level, and pervasive cases of children performing at failure levels in schools in an academic environment where behavior violations are seriously impacting the ability of teachers to teach and children to learn in a safe school setting.
This area of the law is where the Court can be proactive without being activist. All community resources, private and public, should be utilized to penetrate this culture of dysfunction. If resources are available and provided, once again there must be accountability required on the part of service providers and the families. Government cannot raise children. Parents do. The Court, however, can let it be known in no uncertain terms that the level of expectation must be met. The next generation will require it.
Effective Case Management - As a judge, I will be committed to working hard and ensuring cases move through the court as efficiently as possible. This must not come at the expense of a thorough review of each and every case pending before the court. People must have adequate time to prepare their case. However, justice delayed is justice denied.
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I believe I have the assets the public would expect their Circuit Judge to exercise: broad and balanced experience; a thorough work ethic; patience in listening to people with serious personal, family or financial concerns; the ability to manage a large case load so that cases can move through the system with promptness bringing cases to a conclusion; bringing criminal cases to jury trial rather than approve plea negotiated sentences that are good for the defendant and poor for the public safety. My world view and philosophy is what I've seen written, that the Founders intended the Constitution to be a vault where our principles of government were deposited for safe keeping, not a pantry where those principles are used, misused and\or modified according to the judge's appetite.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
That I discharged the duties of the Court in a manner of unimpeached integrity, always remaining committed to making rulings on the law and evidence alone without preference for any person for any reason. That I ruled in a manner to protect our families and the public at large from criminals. Finally, that I remained humble, always embracing a judge's limited role in our constitutional form of government and never legislating from the bench.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.soudforjudge.com
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Mark Hulsey
The incumbent in this seat. Channel 4 has not received a response from this candidate.
CIRCUIT JUDGE - Group 28
This is a non-partisan race between Virginia Norton and Rick Buttner.
Rick Buttner
AGE: 40
FAMILY: Wife of 16 years, Sharon, and two children, Charlotte and Nolan
OCCUPATION: Attorney. Partner: Hamilton and Buttner
EDUCATION: Valdosta State University Bachelor of Arts 1986-1990. Cumberland School of Law Juris Doctor 1992-1995.
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: [No response]
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
Experience – Circuit judges must have the breadth and depth of experience to be ready from day one. As someone who has been a prosecutor, civil trial advocate, family law attorney, and commercial lawyer, I am the only Group 28 candidate who has practiced in each of the areas where a circuit judge presides – and the only candidate with significant jury trial experience.
Law Enforcement – As an Assistant State Attorney in Duval and Nassau Counties, I prosecuted criminals, represented the interests of crime victims, and worked hard to make our streets safe. Police and firefighter associations in Duval, Clay, and Nassau Counties have endorsed me for Circuit Judge in Group 28. Our public safety officers believe that I am the best qualified and most experienced candidate.
Family – Circuit judges are often called upon to handle difficult family matters like divorce and child custody. I am the only candidate in this race who has practiced family law. As a husband of 16 years and the father of two children, I understand the importance of family and have tried to represent my family law clients with the sensitivity and good judgment that they deserve. I will do the same in family law cases as a circuit judge.
HOW DO YOU THINK YOU COULD HELP VOTERS IN A WAY OTHERS IN THIS RACE CAN'T?
As the only candidate in the race who has practiced in each of the areas over which a Circuit Judge presides – criminal law, civil and commercial matters, family law, juvenile court, and probate – I will bring unique experience to the bench. As an Assistant State Attorney, I prosecuted thousands of defendants and conducted dozens of trials, making me the only candidate in this race with criminal law and significant jury trial experience. In private practice, I have litigated a wide variety of civil cases, including business disputes. I have also executed the same types of real estate and business transactions that sometimes end up in circuit court litigation, which gives me a keen understanding of many of the issues that will come before me as a Circuit Judge.
WHAT WOULD YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
I hope people remember Rick Buttner as a firm but fair circuit judge who followed the law, served with integrity, and never lost sight of the real people whose lives are significantly impacted by litigation. I also hope they remember me as a no-nonsense judge who moved cases as quickly as possible because he understood that justice delayed can easily become justice denied.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.RickButtner.com
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Virginia Norton
AGE: 36
FAMILY: Gloria and Ray Norton, Parents; Hamilton Norton, Brother
OCCUPATION: Assistant General Counsel, City of Jacksonville
As an Assistant General Counsel for the City of Jacksonville, I serve the Consolidated City of Jacksonville and its respective agencies. My clients include the Duval County School Board and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. In addition, I also represent deputies with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office who are sued in their individual capacity. I maintain an active calendar in State, Federal, Appellate, and Administrative courts.
In February 2006, I was named the City of Jacksonville’s lead attorney in defending section 674.502, Jacksonville Municipal Code (“Sexual Predator Residency Restriction Ordinance). Over the past, two years, I have litigated this matter with prosecutors from the Office of the State Attorney. This Ordinance restricts where sexual predators may live with regard to our children.
EDUCATION: University of Virginia, Bachelor of Arts Degree, Rhetoric and Communications Studies, 1994. University of Florida College of Law, Juris Doctor, 1997. Post-Baccalaureate Classes, University of North Florida Coggin College of Business, 2000.
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Special Master for the City of Jacksonville- January 2006 to present- I have presided over three thousand (3000) hearings concerning the Jacksonville Municipal Code.
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
Experience- The Fourth Judicial Circuit faces a backlog of cases as well as the pressure of budget cuts. Consequently, the next Circuit Court Judge needs to be able to hit the ground running on the first day. Relying on my experience as a Special Master for the City of Jacksonville, I will be able to move cases to completion while balancing efficiency with common sense, fairness, and adherence to the law. Having gotten my first job at the age of 13, I understand the importance of hard work and being industrious with limited resources.
Public Safety- As a victim of a violent crime myself and as a lawyer for Jacksonville Sheriff John Rutherford, I know firsthand the need for public safety.As a Circuit Court Judge, it will be my priority to act in accordance with the law to keep Northeast Florida safe.
Values- A Circuit Court Judge should be an individual who possesses the strength, integrity, and humility to hold such a crucial position. I have dedicated my personal and professional life to serving the citizens of Northeast Florida.It is my pledge to remain a humble, public servant if elected as Circuit Court Judge.
HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
As a Special Master for the City of Jacksonville, I have already presided over three thousand (3000) hearings. I am the only candidate in this race with this level of experience in making the tough decisions that Circuit Court Judges make. I am also the only candidate who TODAY works with prosecutors in protecting our children from criminals. As the City of Jacksonville's lead attorney in protecting the Sexual Predator Residency Restriction Ordinance, I fight for our children. Although I have the experience of private, legal practice, I chose, and still do choose, to make the children and families of this community as the focus of my legal career. My commitment to public safety, especially with regard to children, will help our community be a safer and better place to live and raise a family. I have also appeared in the County Court, Circuit Court, First District Court of Appeals, and Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. This experience shows a proven, track record for addressing some of Northeast Florida's greatest problems. Finally, my volunteer service brings a unique perspective to the bench. Whether as a member of the Justice Coalition Board or the Women's Board of Wolfson Children's Hospital, I have dedicated myself to public safety and children.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
I hope to be remembered for being a Judge who made Northeast Florida a safer and better place to live and raise a family. I also hope to be remembered for being a hard working, public servant who put her community's needs before her own. As a Circuit Court Judge, I will be a fair but tough Judge who treats all people with respect and dignity.
CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.vote-virginia.net
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