I am running for judge because I believe I can make a difference from the bench.

Law School & Federal Judicial Clerkship: I graduated from the UCLA School of Law in 1999 but my interest in the judiciary actually started during law school when I did a semester-long clerkship for a federal judge. The judge had weekly lunches where we would discuss the cases. I read briefs for motions, researched the issues, and wrote memos that the judge would review in determining how he would rule on the motion. The experience I got from that single semester provided invaluable preparation for my career.

Multi-National Private Firms: Working for the judge sparked my ambition to one day joining the bench, but I realized I needed significantly more experience before I would be ready for that role. I started working at some of the largest firms in the country where I worked on large, complex litigation cases. I was involved in every aspect of my cases. I researched and wrote briefs, gathered information from my clients and the opposing sides, negotiated settlements, and prepared for and conducted trials and hearings. 

Small and Solo Firms: I realized that while I enjoyed my work, I did not ultimately want to be a partner at a large law firm. I wanted to help clients who needed large firm representation but could not afford large firm rates. So in 2012, I started a boutique litigation firm with two colleagues. We represented small and medium-sized businesses, non-profits, and individuals in litigation matters running the gamut from contract disputes, partnership disputes, employment issues, real estate and land use cases, and even the occasional personal injury matter. In 2019, I began my own solo firm, continuing to serve the same kinds of clients. In addition to my legal career, I was also introduced to the unique struggles of family court as I navigated the system as a foster father for 10 years during this same time frame.

Idaho Deputy Attorney General, Civil Litigation & Constitutional Law: More than two years ago, I embarked on the second stage of my career and became a Deputy Attorney General for the State of Idaho. During my time working for the State, I have represented the State in federal and state court. I have worked on cases challenging the constitutionality of our election laws, our death penalty laws, and our spending laws. I have been involved with cases promoting transparency in government. I have also represented State agencies and employees defending against wrongful death and other personal injury cases. I have written briefs to the Idaho Supreme Court. And I have continued to apply what I have learned during my entire career to ensure the fairness and integrity of the judicial system.

My early experience with the judiciary combined with the wide variety of cases I’ve tried over the years has uniquely prepared me to transition into becoming a judge. I’d like to go from defending Idaho’s laws to applying those laws to the facts of specific cases and helping ensure a just and fair decision in each case that comes before me.

I welcome your support and ask for your vote.