District Court judge: Jim Wilson

Name: Jim Wilson

Age: 53

Campaign Web site: jimwilsonforjudge.org

Education: 1973 graduate of Carson High School; 1977 Bachelor of Science, Business Administration (accounting) University of Nevada, Reno; 1981 Juris Doctorate degree, McGeorge School of Law

Profession: Lawyer

Political experience: Elected district attorney 1983 -- 1986.

Please write a short biography of yourself (you might include such things as birthplace, career, community involvement, family, etc.):

My family moved from Fallon to Carson in 1959. I attended Carson schools and UNR. I wanted a law enforcement career and worked as a deputy sheriff in Carson: patrol; SWAT; and motorcycle officer. I planned to return to police work after law school but accepted a deputy district attorney position and was then elected district attorney. I've been in private practice 21+ years and have the broadest legal experience among the candidates. I was a reserve policeman for five years while in private practice. I am a candidate for judge because I was asked by community leaders to run.

Have you ever been arrested? No. If so, when and for what offense? N/A

Should judges be given more discretion than allowed by current law in imposing sentences? Yes. Why? Justice can only be done on an individual basis because each case has unique facts and circumstances. Judges need broad discretion so they can serve justice by applying the law fairly based upon each case's unique facts and circumstances.

What criteria would you use for deciding whether to impose or affirm sentences outside of standard ranges?

Each case must be decided upon its specific and unique facts. Fair sentencing involves consideration of many factors including: the consequences of the crime on the victim, the victim's family, and society at large; the number of victims; the danger the offender presents to society; the nature of the offense; prior criminal history; and acceptance or denial of responsibility.

What response should society have to prison overcrowding? The safety and welfare of our fellow citizens needs to be considered. Programs to address underlying issues are being tried -- drug court, mental health court. Analysis of the results of these programs needs to continue. We need to strengthen the family.

What has been your greatest accomplishment in your legal career? I have helped people -- all kinds of people with all kinds of problems.

In your personal life? A 27 year marriage resulting in five wonderful children.

What is your general judicial philosophy?

I support The Code of Judicial Conduct which states: "Our legal system is based on the principle that an independent, fair and competent judiciary will interpret and apply the laws that govern us. The role of the judiciary is central to American concepts of justice and the rule of law. ... judges ... must respect and honor the judicial office as a public trust and strive to enhance and maintain confidence in our legal system. The judge is an arbiter of facts and law for the resolution of disputes and a highly visible symbol of government under the rule of law."

Why should voters support you rather than your opponent? I am the only candidate with on-the-street police experience. I have the broadest legal experience. I care about our communities, their residents, and their future.

What else would you like to say to voters about your qualifications and ideas? Being a good judge is a difficult job; I will do my best to make Carson and Storey County residents proud that I am their judge. I care about people. I promise to respect and honor the judicial office as a public trust and to strive to enhance and maintain confidence in our legal system.