Two candidates are running for District Judge (6th Judicial District, 1st Division), with only one seats up for grabs. Candidates were asked to provide background information and give brief description of their platform.
Candidates are listed in the order they appear on the ballot.
J. Nick Payne
Age: 46
Education: Owensboro Catholic High School; Centre College (B.S. in Economics, B.A. in Government); University of Kentucky College of Law (Juris Doctorate)
Occupation: Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney, 6th Circuit (2002-present)
Elected offices held: None
Platform: I ask for your vote to be Daviess County’s next District Court Judge. The 20 years I have practiced law have been devoted to public service: as a judicial law clerk, helping judges research and write sound opinions; a public defender, protecting the rights of the poor; and as a prosecutor, advocating for crime victims. I believe a Judge should be willing to study the law and stay informed of changes, and take time to explain rulings to the citizens who rely on the Judge to hear their case with respect, compassion and impartiality. This is especially true in District Court which has a large and diverse caseload. As your Judge, I promise I will listen, whether you are in front of me for a speeding ticket, to probate the estate of a loved one or to settle a dispute with a neighbor.
Misty L. Miller
Age: 59
Education: Kentucky Wesleyan College (B.A. in Political Science); Northern Kentucky University (Juris Doctorate)
Occupation: District Court Judge
Elected offices held: None (Appointed District Court Judge by Gov. Andy Beshear)
Platform: Being your District Court Judge was a goal for which I prepared by spending over 14 years serving as an assistant county attorney. That service gave me great experience in virtually every area of District Court. I can’t imagine doing this job without that experience. As your District Court Judge, my objectives include working toward improving scheduling, and expanding use of online court appearances. I will also continue presiding over Juvenile Drug Court, working to reach out to juveniles who would benefit from participation. Continuing to work in cooperation with the county attorney Mental Health Coordinator to help direct people in need of mental health services to those services is also an ongoing objective. Equally as important as specific objectives is my commitment to continue serving the people of Daviess County with the fairness, compassion, and work ethic that has carried me this far.
