CharMeckVotes.org

Superior Court Judge 26B – Candidate – Bill Constangy

Website: www.judgeconstangy.com

E-mail: bill@judgeconstangy.com

Phone Number: 704–807-8164

Facebook Page or URL: http://www.facebook.com/bill.constangy

Twitter name or URL: constangy

Current Occupation: District Court Judge

Education–Highest Degree: J.D., Duke University School of Law

Most important organizations you belong to (up to three): Rotary Club of Charlotte
Saint Gabriel’s Catholic Church

List up to three (3) of your most important political/civic accomplishments in the last five (5) years. (150 word limit): Elected to my 6th consecutive 4-year term as a District Court Judge in 2008; First place in 2010 nonpartisan primary for Superior Court

What qualities, other than obvious fairness and impartiality, will you/do you bring to the bench that makes you a good judge? (150 word limit): I bring to the court in depth knowledge and experience gained over more than 21 years of service as a trial court judge presiding over heavy dockets in civil, criminal and family court, including thousands of jury and non-jury trials, and from practicing law in Charlotte for 18 years before becoming a judge. I am also the published author of a law book on employment law and various articles. I have a proven track record, recognized by more than 400 Mecklenburg lawyers who have endorsed me, of conducting court in a calm, even-handed and dignified manner with respect for lawyers, litigants and witnesses who come before the court. Having been married for 40 years, raised a family here with my wife and lived here for 50 years, I am dedicated to keeping our community safe for our children and grandchildren and engendering respect for the law and the judicial system.

How has the state budget crisis affected the judicial process in recent years? (200 word limit): I have said for many years, even before the budget crisis, that our state is conducting “justice on the cheap.” Less than 3% of the state budget is allotted to the judicial system. Trial court judges have no law clerks to assist them with legal research, staff assistance is minimal, salaries for court personnel are low, judicial education had been limited and important criminal diversionary programs have been curtailed while the volume of cases continues to accelerate exponentially. For example, on one recent Monday session of District criminal court I had 161 cases on the morning docket and 126 cases in the afternoon. If we are truly concerned with law and order and the quality of justice, it is essential that our legislature allocate the resources necessary to allow judges to have the time, staff and assistance to enhance their ability to process cases not only expeditiously but thoroughly and fairly.

How can residents get involved in your campaign? Please include campaign manager or volunteer coordinator’s contact information.: By volunteering at my campaign website, www.judgeconstangy.com or contacting me at bill@judgeconstangy.com or 704-807-8164.