Birmingham, AL – Voters in Jefferson County will head to the polls on November 5 to choose a new Circuit Court Judge for the Place 13 seat, marking an important judicial transition as the current officeholder prepares for retirement. The election pits Democrat Frederic A. Bolling against Republican Douglas M. Roy Jr. in a competition to manage civil legal matters for the county.
The seat up for grabs is currently held by Judge Carole Smitherman, who announced her plan to retire in January, prompting this year’s race to find her successor. The victor of the election will be stepping into a role critical for overseeing civil disputes within the region.
Douglas M. Roy Jr., representing the Republican ticket, graduated from the University of Alabama and went on to earn his law degree from the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in 2000. With a legal career oriented around personal injury, bankruptcy, and divorce, Roy has built his practice in the county over several decades. However, attempts to contact him for comments prior to the publication were unsuccessful.
His opponent, Frederic A. Bolling, carries a substantial background in law with 26 years of legal experience. An alumnus of Auburn University and Howard University School of Law, Bolling previously served as a special circuit judge for Jefferson County in 2017. He also pursued a district court judge position in 2018, though without success.
During his campaign, Bolling has emphasized his commitment to the community and the local judicial system. He aims to ensure that the court delivers justice efficiently and expeditiously, reinforcing the already robust reputation of Jefferson County’s courts. Bolling pointed out, “The community’s primary need from the judicial system is to have a body that is not only qualified and experienced but also prompt in its delivery of justice.”
Frederic Bolling discussed his vision for handling the responsibilities of Place 13 by stating his intent to focus on the swift disposition of cases, thereby maintaining and possibly enhancing the level of judicial service. He articulated his respect for the existing system, indicating no drastic changes but rather a continuation of quality service.
The newly elected judge will assume office in January, taking on a significant judicial role in Jefferson County’s legal landscape. The outcome of this election will influence how civil matters are managed, affecting the efficiency and effectiveness of local court proceedings.
As the community prepares to make a pivotal decision, the implications on the judicial process and local governance are evident, emphasizing the importance of informed voting to preserve and potentially improve the well-regarded judicial tradition in Jefferson County.
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