OPINION

Letter: Pearson has qualities of great judge

By Paul Widick, Santa Fe, New Mexico

I support the election of Judge Andrew Pearson as district court judge in the 7th Judicial District. Judge Pearson is chambered in St. Cloud, where he practiced law for several years.

I was a judge in Stearns County before my retirement. During that time, I was privileged to see Andy develop his considerable skills as an attorney. I watched as he became one of the region’s premier attorneys. Andy was always prepared, he advocated effectively on behalf of his clients, and he had a well-deserved reputation for integrity. In one of our cases, national media followed the trial; Andy won a prestigious award as a consequence of his performance in that case.

Judge Pearson secured appointment to the Bench through a rigorous vetting process by a Judicial Selection Committee. This procedure has ensured that only highly qualified individuals become judges. Also, Judge Pearson received the support of 85 percent of attorneys voting in a local plebiscite. I join my colleagues and support Andy Pearson.