Judge Shelia Johnson for Michigan Supreme Court

Personal Statement and Judicial Philosophy

I consider it a privilege and a great honor to have been elected by the people of the 46th District to serve on the 46th District Court.

During my nine years on the District Court, I have endeavored to decide each case on the merits using the following principles:

(1) To judge fairly and respectfully, without bias for or against any person or organization;

(2) To thoroughly reasearch matters and to decide them as expeditiously as possible;

(3) To interpret and apply the law accurately, respecting the precedent established in case law and the intent of the Legislature in statutes;

(4) To try not to lose sight of good old common sense and real world concerns.

Above and beyond the duties in the courtroom, I believe that judges must reach out into the community to educate citizens on the law and the legal process, in order to foster an understanding, comfort, trust and a sense of fairness with the judicial system. I frequently particpate as a speaker for community events and on panel discussions on legal issues in furtherance of this goal.

Most importantly, community judges must reach out to youth, to impact them as role models and to encourage compliance with the law. To this end, over the last nine years I have implemented my prior campaign pledge of enhancing the presence of the court within the schools by spearheading the establishment of a “Court In Schools” program, where I hold actual court sessions at local high schools and middle schools with the goal of deterring youth from criminal behavior and inspiring them towards positive career choices. Additionally, I serve as a "Community Partner" with Southfield Public Schools, making regular appearances at "Career Days" at all level schools and mentoring students interested in law through regular sponsorship of a summer intern in my office.

As your next Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, I will continue to strive to be fair, to do justice and to work within our community to effect positive changes. I will continue to serve your interests with the same level of enthusiasm and commitment on the Michigan Supreme Court. Thank you for your continuing support!

Sincerely,

Judge Shelia Johnson

46th District Court

MEET JUDGE JOHNSON,  ENDORSED CANDIDATE FOR THE 2012 DEMOCRATIC NOMINATION FOR THE SUPREME COURT!!