Four candidates in a countywide race for Alachua County Judge appeared on the August primary ballot and none appeared a majority of the vote. The two with the most votes face each other in the general election.
Qualified Candidates |
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Craig DeThomasis
Age: 59
Candidate's family: Married 33 years to Molly. Together we have two daughters, Sarah (an Eastside H.S. and University of Florida graduate and Anna, a Buchholz H.S. and Florida State University graduate).
Occupation: Attorney (34 years) and Adjunct Professor of Law at U.F.(28 years).
Education: B.S. Business Administration/Finance (University of Florida, 1980), Juris Doctor (University of Florida, 1983).
Political experience: No prior political experience.
Summarize your political platform in 10 words or less.
To serve all those who appear in Alachua County courts with respect and fairness.
What do you see as the top three issues in this race?
1. To assure all who appear in Alachua County Court that their case will be heard with impartiality by the most experienced and qualified person.
2. To assure all that as a Judge I will maintain the integrity of the Court at all times.
3. That all issues heard before the Court will be resolved promptly with clear and concise rulings.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
I am the only candidate with over 34 years experience representing the interests of individuals as an Attorney in Alachua County. I am the only candidate with over 28 years experience as a legal educator at the University of Florida College of Law. I am also the only candidate in this race who has been endorsed by the North Central Florida Chapter of the Florida Police Benevolent Association Inc. and has received the highest possible ratings for legal ability and ethical standards from both Florida bar approved ratings services.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
I would like to be remembered as a Judge who worked hard to be knowledgeable of the law and who treated all who came before the Court with the utmost respect treating each individual case with care and concern.
Website: craigforjudge.com
Social media: Facebook
Meshon Rawls
Age: 46
Candidate's family: I am married to Reverend Ron Rawls. We have three adult children. Ron, III is married to Alana. Kiara is married to Cody. Jamahl is our youngest child. Our three granddaughters are Bella, Naila and Ayani. We also raised my brother, Darius.
Occupation: Professor and Attorney
Education: Bachelor of Arts, University of Florida (With Honors) and Juris Doctorate, University of Florida College of Law
Political experience: I have no prior political experience.
Summarize your political platform in 10 words or less.
Continuing Public Service from a Different Perspective
What do you see as the top three issues in this race?
In this race for County Court Judge I believe the top issues to consider are the candidate's: (1) dedication to serving the community (2) commitment to fairness and justice and (3) willingness to ensure all litigants have an opportunity to be heard.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
I trust that all the candidates can be fair, honest and treat everyone with respect and dignity, however, I am certainly committed to doing those things as well as ensuring that voters have confidence and trust in the integrity of the judiciary.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
I hope people will remember my efforts to ensure everyone has access to courts, my commitment to encourage high standards of professionalism, and my dedication to service in the community and legal profession.
Website: MeshonRawls.com
Social media: Facebook / Twitter