The following is a compilation of the unedited responses from Stewart R. Werner, candidate for Randall County Court-at-Law #2, to the 2018 Amarillo Pioneer Voter Guide Questionnaire. Werner is running in the March 6th Republican primary against Amarillo attorneys James Abbott and Matt Martindale.
Name:
Stewart R. Werner
Office Sought:
Randall County Court-at-Law #2
Why did you decide to run for office?
I sensed a calling to run for the judiciary. I love the law, and after practicing for 37 years, I wanted to take my passion for justice to the next level. I have provided excellent service to my clients, making a positive difference in their lives through my representation. I look forward to making a positive difference in many more lives from the bench.
Please list any of your political, civic or non-profit experience.
I am an alumnus of Leadership Amarillo and a member of the Amarillo Area Bar Association. I am also a current member and past president of the Panhandle Family Law Association. I previously served on the boards of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Family Support Services.
What is your educational background?
I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Management) from Texas Tech University and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Oklahoma School of Law. I graduated in the top 5% of my class, earned the Order of the Coif (an honor for the top members of a law school class), and while in law school, served on the Oklahoma Law Review as Articles Editor and Note Editor. I have also earned certifications as a mediator in both civil and family law cases.
What experience do you have that qualifies you for this position?
I have 37 years of legal experience – having handled the same matters heard by the Randall County Court at Law #2. The County Court at Law #2 hears civil cases up to $200,000, family law, probate, guardianship, and criminal cases. Not only do I have extensive experience in each of those matters, I manage a successful solo law practice. I will draw on that experience to promote financial efficiency and cost saving measures in the Court.
How will you best represent the community that elected you?
I will bring the same level of professionalism, work ethic, and service that I provide in my law practice to the Randall County Court at Law #2. I will interpret and apply our laws properly, as the legislature intended, and will effectively and promptly perform the duties of the Court.
Are you supported by Amarillo Matters?
No
How are you better suited than your opponent(s) to serve in the position that you are running for?
I have many more years of legal experience than my opponents and have more experience in the matters specifically heard by the Randall County Court at Law #2. This experience makes me better suited to serve as Judge of this Court. As one example, in the family law arena, judges make decisions that have a profound, and many times life-long, impact on children and families. My experience provides the wisdom and judgment skills that are needed to make decisions in the best interests of children and society. This experience also ensures that the interests of justice will be most effectively served.
Why should voters choose you on March 6th?
Sitting in judgment of other people is an awesome responsibility. I am a lifelong conservative Republican, a Christian, and have an in-depth knowledge of the judicial system. With my extensive experience, ability to listen, and wisdom, I am the best-qualified candidate in this race.
Photo by Werner Campaign