League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Los Angeles County, CA March 2, 2004 Election
	P. Michael Erwin Answers Questions Candidate for Superior Court Judge; County of Los Angeles; Office 69

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. Why are you running for Superior Court Judge?

I attended law school with the goal of eventually becoming a judge. I always knew the best place for me in the justice system was as the neutral problem-solver, rather than one of the advocates. I have faith and confidence in myself to be an excellent judge. I ask the voters to review my background and views and think for themselves.Your vote for me is one in which you will be proud. I want to make ordinary people feel as though the third branch of government, the judiciary, is accessible to them, and will treat them with the respect they deserve. On the other hand,I want to make wrongdoers in our society know that, while the court will respect their civil and human rights, wrongdoing has it's consequences. Treating others wrongly or causing others harm should not be tolerated by society, and society depends on their Judges to dispense real justice, not justify milquetoast positions in the name of the "law". Consequences for evildoers should be swift, serious and something no one would ever want to have to experience again. I will order the consequences for wrongdoing in each case as appropriate.

2. What are the personal qualities which best equip you to serve as a judge?

I have been on my own since age 18-I have had to earn everything I have. Nothing was given me. This taught me self reliance. A marriage into it's second decade,four grown children and a brand-new grandson taught me responsibility,compassion and the power of serious commitment. Education has given me the ability to apply those qualities as a judge along with good old-fashioned common sense.
I have been on all sides of the legal litigation arena. My first real taste was as an injured worker who had no idea what to do when the insurance company refused treatment for a legitimate work-related injury. What did I do? I studied and became a Certified Paralegal, then went to Law School while working full-time and became an attorney. In addition to being initiated into the system as a bewildered victim, I have vigorously represented injured and disabled people, defendants, and the people of the State of California.
All candidates for judge must be experienced attorneys. All say they will be fair and impartial. What sets me apart? Impartial? Yes. Fair? Yes. Able to understand each side of every case? Oh yes.
I have professional experience and qualities only life experience can teach.