The Importance of State Court Judges

On July 31, 2012, you will have the opportunity to cast votes in the primary election for local offices where there are more open seats than in recent memory.    

One of the positions you will vote for is Cobb County State Court Judge, Division II, Post 2. It is extremely important that this position get careful consideration by you before the election. The role of a State Court Jude is to preside over misdemeanor cases that often times involve DUIs, alcohol and drug related charges and a large number of young offenders in the criminal justice system. My name is Marsha Lake, and I’m asking for your vote. 

Considering the types of cases that a State Court Judge will face, three responsibilities must be met in serving the people of Cobb County. First, keep our communities safe. We cannot hope to have strong institutions like schools, fire departments, and police if we do not have strong neighborhoods. 

Second, fairly and effective apply the law. Anyone that comes before the bench deserves a fair hearing and is entitled to this right under the laws and principles of our country. Third, uphold the Constitution. A judge should morally and principally defend and uphold our Constitution and all its liberties; anything short strikes at the heart of American democracy. 

These responsibilities are nonnegotiable and speak to the core of any judge’s role.  When considering these responsibilities, the people of Cobb County must be given clear information regarding judicial philosophy so you can determine who to support and trust. 

A large number of young offender cases will come before this bench requiring a deep understanding of how crime can begin at a young age and what measures can be implemented to prevent it.  Additionally, this year the General Assembly passed House Bill 1176 which is Governor Deal’s signature criminal justice reform. This reform redefines some misdemeanor crimes, creates drug courts and helps reduce the cost of criminal justice on the taxpayers. 

As a result, some State Court Judges will see higher caseloads as more cases are accused as misdemeanors rather than felonies. These changes require judges to have the proper background and experience in criminal law. This is why I am seeking your support and vote. 

I am the only candidate for State Court Judge that has a deep background on both sides of the law, first as a prosecutor in the District Attorney’s office and then as a private attorney, giving me the solid foundation to do this job well for the people of Cobb County and the skill to fairly and effectively apply the law.  Because of my background, skill level and judicial philosophy, I was recently endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 13.  

I am the only candidate for State Court Judge that has been sworn into the highest court of the land, the Supreme Court of the United States of America.  I am in court on a daily basis trying cases and ensuring that the Constitution is upheld by fighting to see that everyone has an opportunity to have their case heard.  I am seeking this position because I have a vision and a purpose for Cobb County. 

I am the only candidate for State Court Judge who has co-founded a court accepted diversion program for nonviolent alcohol and drug offenders that get young offenders off the streets by helping them not to reoffend; keeping our communities safe.  

Given the importance our State Court Judges have now in the community, electing the right individual for the position is paramount. My obligation to you is to keep our communities safe, provide a fair and effective courtroom and uphold our Constitution. I know I have the background to serve you as Cobb’s next State Court Judge and I am counting on your support.  

For more information about my campaign, please visit my website at www.votelake.com or email me at marsha@votelake.com.

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