CharMeckVotes.org

District Court 26, Judge – Candidate – Tim Smith

Website: www.judgetimsmith.com

E-mail: timsmith4judge@yahoo.com

Phone Number: 704-686-0101

Facebook Page or URL: reelect district court judge tim smith

Current Occupation: District Court Judge-26th Judicial District

Education–Highest Degree: JD-North Carolina University School of Law

Most important organizations you belong to (up to three): Holy Covenant United Church of Christ.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Academic Advisory Board, also PTA level 4 volunteer.
Girl Scouts of America-Former Troop
Leader

List up to three (3) of your most important political/civic accomplishments in the last five (5) years. (150 word limit): Reformed Child Support Enforcement Court by starting the “Pay or Stay Plan” which has been followed by all my fellow judges. The program has dramatically increased collection for children while reducing jail stays and saving taxpayers money.
Introduced a five point plan to reduce incidents of Domestic Violence in Mecklenburg County.
Mentoring an entire troop of Girl Scouts to the successful completion of their Bronze Award.

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): Experience, compassion, extensive knowledge of the law, hard work, patience, staying abreast of treatment and diversion programs to address mental health and substance abuse issues, the ability to think “outside the box” in order to fashion novel solutions to recurring court issues. I also have a deep-seated passion to assist victims of Domestic Violence and have attended extensive trainings to assist and comfort victims and hold batterers accountable for their actions. I have the support of over 1000 citizens and nearly 300 attorneys who appear before me on a regular basis. I have not been afraid to take difficult positions in order to assure justice for all.

How has the state budget crisis affected the judicial process in recent years? (200 word limit): The state budget has hindered the administration of justice in many ways. The courts now have fewer resources to deal with substance abusers, the mentally ill and fewer victims’ advocates to assist and counsel victims of domestic abuse. The funding cuts for mentally ill and juvenile programs have been particularly disheartening. I have attempted to deal with these budget shortfalls by partnering with non-profits such as the Urban League, Goodwill, Communities in Transitions and faith based programs.

How can residents get involved in your campaign? Please include campaign manager or volunteer coordinator’s contact information.: Residents can keep up-to-date by visiting my website at www.judgetimsmith.com, by assisting with campaign finance, visiting my Facebook page, volunteering to canvass, inviting me to speak at community organizations, helping with sign placement and working polls. My volunteer coordinator is Jackie Smith and she can be reached at 704-619-2121.