Plymouth Court Election Controversy: Candidates Address Allegations of Hostile Work Environment

Plymouth Faces Controversy as Court Candidates Gear Up for Election

Plymouth might be buzzing with the excitement of new beginnings, but there’s a cloud of controversy overhead as two candidates vying for a coveted seat on the bench at the 35th District Court prepare for an upcoming election. This election has taken an unexpected turn with a lawsuit that has drawn our attention to the court’s inner workings.

Just this past March, Livonia attorney Sundus Jaber filed a federal lawsuit alleging that two judges, Chief Judge Ron Lowe, who is set to retire after a remarkable 30-year tenure, and Judge James Plakas, fostered a hostile work environment. In her lawsuit, Jaber claimed that her experience as a Palestinian-American public defender was marred by incidents of harassment and discrimination, negatively impacting her ability to advocate for her indigent clients.

The lawsuit details a series of troubling incidents where requests for help were allegedly brushed aside, leading to Jaber facing retaliation in her position, including reduced hours and income. While Jaber’s claims remain serious, both judges have expressed confidence that the evidence will contradict her assertions. With motions to dismiss currently underway, the situation continues to unfold.

Candidates in the Spotlight

As Judge Lowe prepares to step down, two attorneys are stepping up to fill his shoes: Michael Woodyard, a 58-year-old attorney from Canton, and Joe Barone, a 53-year-old attorney from Plymouth. Both gentlemen are well aware of the ongoing lawsuit and recognize the extensive legal processes ahead.

“The allegations are disturbing, but I also recognize that there’s a long way to go in any sort of a lawsuit like that,” Woodyard commented. He believes strongly in the idea of respecting all litigants who come before the court, emphasizing his commitment to the basic humanity of individuals.

Barone, who has previously run against Judge Plakas, mentioned, “I respect both of them, but I don’t know the facts, so I don’t think it’s something I could comment on as a candidate.” He vowed to treat everyone who appears before him fairly and promised to address any issues he may discover once elected.

Getting to Know the Candidates

In an effort to learn more about these candidates, a local publication reached out with a series of thought-provoking questions that revealed their motivations, experiences, and plans should they take on the role of judge.

Experience Matters

Barone detailed his experience with nearly 30 years in private practice, emphasizing his connection to the Plymouth community as a key reason for wanting to become a judge. “I’ve handled over 400 cases at the 35th District Court alone,” he added, highlighting his deep understanding of local legal challenges.

On the other hand, Woodyard shared his unique journey as a public defender and former prosecutor in Wayne County. “I am at home in the courtroom,” he described passionately, underlining his dedication to serving the community and pursuing justice.

Strengths and Areas for Improvement

Both candidates had compelling insights on the strengths and potential improvements for the court. Woodyard pointed out that the District Court has a significant impact on community life, dealing with cases that hit closer to home than many may realize. However, he noted that the court could benefit from more community trust and engagement.

Barone highlighted the court’s alternative sentencing options, suggesting that focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment offers valuable benefits. Yet, he mentioned the need for ongoing transparency and education about court processes, ensuring that everyone feels informed.

Building Trust with the Public

When it comes to fostering public trust and transparency, Barone expressed the need for clear communication, impartiality, and accountability in court. “I will provide detailed explanations for my decisions,” he pledged. Meanwhile, Woodyard stressed the importance of treating each person with respect, emphasizing the need for fair and timely decisions to strengthen public confidence in the court system.

Embracing Diversity

The candidates were also asked how they plan to ensure the court respects the community’s diversity. Woodyard spoke about the importance of court personnel having rich experiences with different cultures, while Barone focused on treating everyone equally and ensuring that services are accessible to all citizens.

On Indigent Defense and Specialty Courts

Both showed their commitment to improving representation and support for indigent defendants. Barone acknowledged the strides made by the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission but asserted that more work is necessary. Woodyard, with firsthand experience as a public defender, highlighted the crucial role that specialty courts play in rehabilitation, proving that those who face tough times can find their path to recovery.

Conclusion

This election for the 35th District Court is shaping up to be more than just a routine vote; it may lead to significant changes in how justice is administered in the Plymouth area. As both candidates head into the contest, they are not only battling for an esteemed position but also navigating the complexities of an ongoing controversy that touches the lives of many.

As we look ahead, it will be interesting to see how this story develops, and how the candidates’ promises translate into real change within our beloved community of Plymouth.