FeedsFormer military judge throws hat in 35th District race
A former federal government appellate counselor and certified military trial judge is among six Plymouth, Canton and Northville community residents vying to replace Judge John MacDonald at the 35th District Court.
Arthur R. Butler, an attorney with the Plymouth Legal Group who has lived in the Plymouth area since 1996, said that the time has come for him to give back to the community.
“I believe if you have the ability you have the responsibility to serve,” said Butler who retired as a Deck Commander with the United States Coast Guard in 1992 and has practiced law for close to 26 years.
“We’re losing in Judge MacDonald years of experience. In order to keep a balance (in the court) we need someone that can draw from some life experiences,” said Butler who added that his experience as military trial judge gives him an advantage over the other lawyers seeking the judgeship.“I’m not advocating a lot of change, but I’ve got more experience, maturity.”
While never serving on the bench, Northville resident Jim Plakas said his experience as a prosecutor; municipal attorney and defense attorney gives him the proper experience and perspective to be a judge.
“I know the law and I will make sane and rational decisions on the bench,” said Plakas, who said he has gained endorsements from more than 45 legal professionals including Wayne County Prosecutor Kim Worthy and Wayne County Sheriff Warren Evans.
“I think I will be an outstanding judge,” said Plakas.
Plakas ran for the judgeship in 2006 but lost to incumbent Judge Ron Lowe.
Rounding out the 2008 judicial candidate field are Plymouth resident and prosecuting attorney Cam Miller, Plymouth Township resident Joe Barone, Northville resident Martha Snow and Canton Township resident Jim Malinowski who also ran for judge in 2006.
On Aug.5, voters will select the top two candidates in a primary election. Those two will face off during the Nov.4 General Election.
The winner will begin the term in January 2009.
