Endorsement: Wade Padgett, Chief Magistrate

Editor:

The Magistrate Court is the entry level into the justice system. It's the first stop for anyone arrested. This court also decides civil suits involving damages of $15,000 or less. Additionally, it hears cases involving minor criminal offenses, distress warrants, county ordinance violations, bad check cases, and issues arrest and search warrants. The judges hear preliminary hearings and determine what cases need to go on to Superior Court.

When it comes to a candidate who is truly qualified for the job, there is no better candidate for chief magistrate judge of Columbia County than J. Wade Padgett. Padgett has held the associate magistrate judge position for the last 10 years. He has had first hand experience deciding thousands of cases and has worked with our county s law enforcement to uphold the values that make our community outstanding.

Wade is a man who cares. He will protect us from those who pose a threat. His experience in Magistrate Court has also afforded him the insight to know what policy and systems can be enhanced as our community grows. No one else would know this except an individual who has proven experience.

But it's not just that Padgett is the most experienced candidate. He is a trusted leader in our community, serving on several boards that work to enhance our quality of life. He volunteers with the Columbia County Recreation Department. He chaperones school trips for his children. He is a man of faith, committed to his church. He is a truly dedicated family man.

I am proud to call Padgett friend. I m proud of his accomplishments and his vision for our community. When elected on July 20, J. Wade Padgett will make you proud as well, as he continues to serve Columbia County with the enthusiasm and professionalism he has done so with for the last 10 years.

Jan Wiggins, Chairman

Committee to Elect J. Wade Padgett

Evans