Elections 2012: Brook Davidson

NAME: Brook Davidson

POLITICAL PARTY AFFILIATION: Republican

OCCUPATION: Probate Attorney

1) Why are you running for this office?

I have considered pursuing this position for many years. When I learned that Judge Cornett was retiring after twenty years as Hall County Probate Court Judge, I talked with my family, thoughtfully considered my options, and prayed for guidance on whether to enter the race. I am convicted that I have the work ethic and professional experience required to serve the citizens of Hall County well as our next Probate Court Judge. I am committed to the Hall County community, where I was born, and where I intend to live out my days. I am encouraged in this endeavor by my family, my friends, and many members of the local legal community.

Although this judgeship is one that many people know very little about, the areas of the law that fall within the jurisdiction of the Probate Court are terribly important, and the citizens of Hall County deserve a judge who knows the law, relates well personally with the citizens and court employees, and has experience acting in a fiduciary capacity. I meet that criteria, and feel that I will best serve Hall County as our next Probate Court Judge.

2) Is the first time you have run for political office? (If "no," please explain.)

Although I have always been interested in politics, this is my first time running for office. I always envisioned myself working on campaigns, but during law school I became very focused on my family and my studies, and fell away from the political scene. I knew someday I would become active in politics once again, I just never imagined it would be when I decided to become the candidate!

3) What qualifications for the office do you bring to the campaign?

I am a probate attorney working full-time with the law firm of Andrew, Merritt, Reilly & Smith, LLP, where I have worked since I was in law school. I represent clients in all areas of probate law, and serve the probate courts as a personal representative, court appointed attorney and guardian ad litem. I have had more than 200 probate cases in more than 15 counties in Georgia. I regularly teach other lawyers and citizens about probate law at seminars and conferences.

4) What do you see as the biggest concern/issue facing the office?

Although I see many issues facing the Court in the future, we are presently in a budget crisis in Hall County, and across the State of Georgia. It is imperative that our next Probate Court Judge take a hard look at the processes and procedures in the Court and take measures to more efficiently serve the people of Hall County.

5) Are there any specific changes you would like to undertake if you are elected? And, please explain your answer.

Although there are many things that the Hall County Probate Court does very well, there are several things that are important to me that I anticipate examining and changing in the Probate Court. When I am elected I will immediately collaborate with our new Sheriff to simplifying the firearms carry permit application process. This is the most widespread complaint I have heard about the Court on the campaign trail, and I believe one of the easiest problems to cure.

Additionally, when I am elected, I will have a person answer the phone in the Probate Court. Many individuals have expressed their frustration to me about this issue.

Hall County Probate Court is an expanded jurisdiction Probate Court, which means that they have the jurisdiction to hear jury trials on matters pertaining to probate law. Yet, Hall County Probate Court has never had a jury trial. Rather than transferring cases with jury demands to other courts, I will keep jury cases in Probate Court, decreasing the work load on the Courts in Hall County, better serving the needs of the parties before the Court, and increasing efficiency in the Court.

One of the most important changes I believe must be made is increasing accountability in guardianship and conservatorship cases. Guardians and conservators are charged with protecting the health, safety, and finances of minor children and incapacitated adults. The Probate Court is charged with supervising guardians and conservators. It is imperative that the Court maintains an ongoing relationship with these fiduciaries, to ensure a positive experience for the fiduciary, and the protection of the minor children and incapacitated adults.