Wallace has the right kind of experience

| October 20, 2016 1:00 AM

People often ask, what kind of experience matters when choosing a Superior Court judge in Grant County? Experience in Grant County Superior Court is imperative. For over 20 years Nick Wallace has practiced law in Grant County Superior Court. Nick’s opponent, Mr. Estudillo, had little or no experience in Grant County Superior Court when Governor Inslee appointed him. Governor Inslee appointed Mr. Estudillo to fill Judge Sperline’s position, but Judge Sperline, who had served on the court for over 32 years, did not recall Mr. Estudillo ever appearing in his courtroom.

Judicial experience is also important. When Governor Inslee appointed Mr. Estudillo, he had no judicial experience. Nick has served as a judicial officer in Grant County Superior Court on a part-time basis for over 11 years. He has an 11-year track record to evaluate his performance, which is precisely what Grant County’s attorneys and judges did when they participated in an anonymous survey conducted by the Grant County Bar Association. Nick’s peers ranked him number one in every category.

Last but not least is experience in the local community. Anyone who wishes to sit in judgment of Grant County locals needs to have a demonstrated record of community involvement and service. Nick has worked with Grant County Special Olympics, has been a part of Washington State University’s “Gear Up” program, and has coached youth sports for years. Nick is currently coaching over 50 girls ages 9 to 12, none of whom are his own. And in recognition of his community involvement, the Washington State Bar Association awarded him its “Local Hero Award” in 2014 for his continued community involvement.

Governor Inslee made a choice for Grant County to fit his political agenda. In a few weeks, we can choose for ourselves who will best represent Grant County.

Stephen W. Reagan

Ephrata