Mattingly Announces Election Bid for Circuit Court

To the Editor: 

            Today, I announce my candidacy for Circuit Court Judge for St. Mary’s County. I am proceeding with a great sense of optimism and a humble regard for the task ahead.

            For nearly two decades, I’ve had the honor and pleasure of representing the citizens of St. Mary’s County.  Each day and in every case, I have worked hard to achieve the best results for my clients.  I’ll bring this same work ethic to the bench.

            I believe there are five basic responsibilities of a good judge.

1.      A judge should be faithful to the law and maintain professional competence in it.  A judge must be unswayed by partisan interest or fear of criticism.

2.      A judge must maintain order and decorum in the proceedings set before him.

3.      A judge should be patient, dignified and courteous to litigants, jurors, witnesses and lawyers, and should require similar conduct of lawyers, staff, and court officials

4.      A judge should accord every individual in a proceeding a full right to be heard.

5.      A judge should promptly dispose of the business of the court.

            Over the years it has been my pleasure to meet a wide variety of people as a result of my law practice, community service and political activities.  These experiences have taught me that no matter one’s economic background, political affiliation, race, creed, or gender, there is much more which unites us than divides us.  This is especially true with regard to our courts and judges.  All people want and expect is their day in court, a chance to be heard by a judge who is fair and unbiased.

            The work of administering justice according to the law is important and honorable.  Freedom, peace, order, and good government – the essentials of the society we treasure –depend in the ultimate analysis on the faithful performance of judicial duty.

            I would feel privileged to serve my community in this vital role and in the weeks and months to come, I look forward to making my case as the most qualified person for this job.

Shane Mattingly

Leonardtown