District judge candidates speak out
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POLSON — Two candidates, James Manley and Mark Russell, are vying for District Judge, Montana 20th Judicial District for Lake and Sanders County.
Candidates were asked what qualities and experience they bring to the position of district judge.
Manley, a 36-year resident of Lake County, is currently serving as district judge.
Manley ran a small business/law firm, handling hundreds of civil cases in state and federal courts in Montana and Wyoming.
“I was a country lawyer practicing every kind of law. I was a criminal prosecutor and defense attorney,” Manley said.
Voted 2009 best trial lawyer in Montana by his peers, Manley also won other state, national and international awards.
“When (Judge) C.B. McNeil retired, judges, attorney and others asked me to apply to succeed him,” Manley said.
Manley was chosen by the Montana Judicial Nominating Commission and was appointed by Governor Steve Bullock in October of 2013.
“I think I’ve earned the reputation as a fair, hardworking judge,” Manley said.
Russell, who is the Chief Deputy Lake County Attorney, has lived in Lake County for 12 years.
“I have worked hard, both as an attorney and as a public servant, to be a fair-minded person,” Russell said. “I will preside over the courtroom with respect and provide all persons with an equal opportunity to address the court.
I have spent the last 20 years demonstrating a solid commitment to public service. As an attorney, I have prosecuted a range of cases from traffic crimes to murder. I have worked cooperatively with law enforcement, witnesses, victims, and defense attorneys to develop resolutions to difficult cases. I have also served as the legal advisor to the County Commissioners, all county departments, and county boards.
Candidates were also asked what three issues facing district court judges were most important and why.
Manley said, for the first time, outside anonymous money is being spent to control judicial elections, Manley said.
“Judges should be independent from control by any political or economic faction,” he said.
Manley’s other issues were the drug epidemic and having a hard-working judge for the heavy workload.
Russell said it is important that a District Judge maintain a respectful, efficient courtroom where attorneys are free to present arguments to inform the court on developing trends in criminal behavior.
“For example, the current increase in drug trafficking, drug use, and resulting property crimes needs to be addressed by the courts,” Russell said. “Punishment and rehabilitation opportunities must be carefully considered to protect victims and society.”
Russell added that the District Court must adhere to consistent practices of reviewing cases in a timely manner and efficiently deliver decisions. The District Court is extremely busy and has limited space to conduct the business of the court.
“The District Judge can alleviate the workload and lack of space by committing to daily review of cases and working with the local attorneys to create standard rules of practice,” he said.
Controversial issues such as the water compact often present themselves to District Court. The judge must recognize the interests of the parties and provide a respectful and fair opportunity for the parties to assert their case, Russell explained.
