Hillsborough circuit judges
By THE TIMES RECOMMENDS
Published October 24, 2006
Hillsborough voters should use the Nov. 7 election to build on the improvements to the judiciary since several scandals in the 1990s. Circuit judges handle felony cases, juvenile and family law and civil lawsuits where damages exceed $15,000. These races are nonpartisan and countywide and winners are elected to six-year terms.
Circuit Judge Group 32
Bernard 'Bernie' Silver
Bernie Silver is the better candidate even if his opponent, former Hillsborough County Judge Elizabeth L. (Betsey) Hapner, had not been removed from the bench for ethical mistakes.
Silver, 61, has handled a wide range of cases throughout his career, from personal injury and commercial litigation to condemnation, police liability and family law. His work as a Tampa city attorney gave him a grounding in public service, and 26 years as a sole practitioner gave him the time-management skills to help move a busy docket.
Beyond his sterling credentials, Silver also brings a level of professionalism befitting the circuit bench. His work through various boards and commissions has raised the standards of the judiciary. His knowledge of courtroom procedure would make him fair and effective. Hapner, 49, a sole practitioner, was removed from office by the Florida Supreme Court in 1998 after the Judicial Qualifications Commission cited her for dishonest behavior in her personal and professional life. There is no need to parse Hapner's rehabilitation with a qualified alternative like Silver. In Group 32, the Times recommends Bernie Silver.
Circuit Judge Group 43
Kimberly Fernandez
If Kim Fernandez puts half the energy into being a judge as she did seeking election, her court will be something to watch. A former Hillsborough prosecutor and public defender, Fernandez, 42, is a seasoned litigator and a quick read on what the local judiciary needs.
Fernandez has run a sole practice since 1995, concentrating on family and criminal law. She is widely regarded as a hard worker, and her discipline and self-confidence command respect. While her detractors worry her energy level could make her insensitive at times, her passion could make the courts more accessible and responsive to litigants. More judges should give more serious thought to moving their dockets, getting the poor legal counsel and having lawyers come to court prepared.
Paul T. Jeske, 56, also is a fine candidate. A civil and criminal trial attorney, he has the experience to serve and the demeanor to be impartial. But Fernandez has better ideas about improving the judiciary and the enthusiasm to pursue them. In Group 43, the Times recommends Kim Fernandez.
Circuit Judge Group 44
Emily Peacock
Both candidates in this race are experienced litigators whose knowledge of the courtroom would make them effective judges immediately. But Emily Peacock has broader experience as a prosecutor and public defender and in the state and federal courts. Her range of criminal and civil expertise make her more valuable in a growing, urban county.
Peacock, 50, now in private practice, has handled everything from criminal and family to securities law. Her history of assuming new and large responsibilities would be helpful in a judicial circuit managing problems in new ways. Peacock's work in government and the private sector gives her perspective on how the courts could better manage cases and improve the delivery of legal aid services. Her friendly, composed style would foster a healthy sense of respect and instill confidence in her court.
Her opponent, Samantha Ward, 41, who heads the major crimes bureau at the Hillsborough Public Defender's Office, is a skilled trial attorney. She also has administered programs to turn her office's clients away from crime. But Peacock has seen and done more. In Group 44, the Times recommends Emily Peacock.
Circuit Judge Group 45
Gary S. Dolgin
Experience makes the judge, but so does one's temperament. That's why Gary Dolgin is the most qualified in this race.
Dolgin, 42, is a board-certified family law attorney. His expertise in a circuit grappling with divorce would serve a niche, especially now that Hillsborough is working to address family problems in a comprehensive way. As a former prosecutor and public defender who has run his own practice for 14 years, Dolgin also brings a balanced perspective from the law and business to the job. He is active in his community and in professional groups, bright and committed to expanding public access to the courts.
Ashley Moody, 31, a federal prosecutor, could use more life experience. But her graduate degree in accounting and community service give her more heft than detractors would have voters believe. Dolgin articulates a far deeper vision for seeking judicial office. He also seems to have a fuller appreciation of the responsibility. In Group 45, the Times recommends Gary Dolgin.