The Duval County Judge, Group 12 race is non-partisan and be voted on countywide. One candidate was eliminated in the August primary, leaving Michelle Kalil and Rhonda Peoples-Waters running for the post. Here are their profiles:
Michelle Kalil
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AGE: 38
FAMILY: Married with one son
OCCUPATION: Attorney
EDUCATION: Wolfson High School; UF bachelors degree; UF Juris Doctorate
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
HOW DO YOU THINK YOU CAN HELP VOTERS IN A WAY OTHERS IN THIS RACE CAN'T?
- "The three candidates in this race have somewhat similar legal career backgrounds. However, I have more public service / legal experience in the Fourth Judicial Circuit's Public Defender's Office than either of my opponents. My tenure as a division chief in that office provided me the invaluable experience of learning to work with and mentor younger attorneys which I think will be helpful for me as a county judge. I have experience in more than 50 jury trials and with every type of criminal and civil law case. Another key difference between my two opponents and me is that my family has called Jacksonville home for three generations. This provides me a deep appreciation for and dedication to our community."
WHAT WOULD YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR ACCOMPLISHING AFTER SERVING IN THIS OFFICE?
- "I've always believed that the best judges find a way to be unwavering and consistent in their administration of the law while still remaining willing to really listen to and strive to truly understand those who appear in their courtroom. I would hope that people would remember me as a judge who found a way to strike that crucial balance and who treated all those in her courtroom fairly and equally."
CAMPAIGN WEBSITE: KalilForJudge.com | Facebook.com/KalilForJudge | TWITTER: @KalilForJudge
Rhonda Peoples-Waters
AGE: 38
FAMILY: Daughter, Jasmine
OCCUPATION: Attorney, business owner
EDUCATION: Fisk University; University of Florida College of Law
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: No prior experience
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
HOW DO YOU THINK YOU CAN HELP VOTERS IN A WAY OTHERS IN THIS RACE CAN'T?
- "I offer proven leadership that the other candidates do not. I have shown a commitment to the community not evidenced by any other candidate in my race. These issues will enhance my abilility to be a fair and respectful judge who will follow the law. I am endorsed by the Fraternal of Police who recognizes my hardwork over years of legal practice."
WHAT WOULD YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR ACCOMPLISHING AFTER SERVING IN THIS OFFICE?
- "I will enhance our community by continuing to show leadership and hardwork is a MUST. Our young people need to see examples of righteousness and integrity inspite of your circumstances. My election and role as a judge will promote confidence in our judicial system."
CAMPAIGN WEBSITE: Peoples4Judge.com | Facebook.com/pages/Rhonda-Peoples-Waters-for-Duval-County-Court-Judge-Group-12 | TWITTER: @Peoples4judge