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NAME: David P. Kliment
POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE A CANDIDATE:
Judge 16th Circuit Court
1. Why are you seeking this position?
I began a career in public service with my appointment as Kane County Public Defender in 1994. That service continued when I was appointed Associate Judge in 2010. I view a Circuit Judgeship as the natural progression of my public service. I believe that my career and background have prepared me for this next step. I possess proven leadership skills, administrative ability and courtroom experience. My work as an attorney has allowed me to interact with persons from all walks of life, providing me with the experience needed to understand the difficulties that many people face. This experience allows me to balance the need for justice and adherence to the rule of law with the need for rehabilitation.
2. What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
I have represented clients in Federal District Court as a member of the Trial Bar and in State Court throughout northern Illinois. During the first 10 years of practice, I represented clients in civil matters in all areas, and did extensive criminal defense work. As Kane County Public Defender for 16 years, I managed an office of 45 people, prepared and presented budgets to the County Board and carried a full felony caseload. I have tried dozens if not hundreds of cases as an attorney. As a judge since 2010, I have now presided in every division of the judiciary. I was well respected as the Public Defender, and have consistently received favorable ratings as a judge. These experiences have prepared me well for this position.
3. What will be your greatest challenge if elected?
The public does not know their judges and the important role that the judiciary plays in their lives. Confidence in the court system is as low as 71% according to a recent survey. I would like to see that change. I believe judges should get out in public more, a view that not all share, and speak to groups when possible. Perhaps the biggest challenge facing every judge is the efficient management of his or her courtroom. From my first days in the Elgin Branch Court through my current assignment as a felony trial judge, my courtrooms have been run efficiently. The same is true for the jurors who sit in my courtroom for trials. The challenge is to find ways to become more efficient so that I can handle more cases.
Will you attend the 2/28 Elgin candidate forum? Yes, I will attend the forum
Will you attend the 3/6 Dundee candidate forum? Yes, I will attend the forum
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