Johnson City Juvenile Court Judge candidate: Dustin Jones

Independent candidate Dustin Jones is running against independent opponents Lisa Witherspoon and Stephanie Sherwood in the race for Johnson City Juvenile Court Judge. The Johnson City Press asked Jones a series of questions, and this is his response: The following answers have been edited for clarity. Q: If elected Judge of Johnson City Juvenile Court, what goals do you plan to work towards for the next eight years? A: My goal is to ensure that the Johnson City Juvenile Court continues to be a place where every person is treated fairly, respectfully and according to the law. I want the Court to be efficient, accessible and focused on protecting children while strengthening families whenever possible. By working with attorneys, schools, service providers and law enforcement, I hope to improve outcomes for children and families, encourage accountability and promote public safety. Q: What experience equips you to serve as Juvenile Court Judge for Johnson City? A: I have practiced law in Johnson City for 17 years, representing individuals and families in a wide variety of legal matters. I have provided legal and Guardian ad Litem representation in hundreds of cases involving children, in dependency and neglect cases, juvenile delinquency/unruly cases, custody cases and child support cases. I am also the current appointed magistrate for the Johnson City Juvenile Court, and have worked closely with the attorneys, Department of Children's Services workers, service providers and court personnel who do their work in the Johnson City Juvenile Court, for the entirety of the 17 years that I have been a local private practice attorney. All of these experiences have given me the legal knowledge, temperament and the practical understanding necessary to serve effectively as the next Johnson City Juvenile Court Judge from day one. Q: What is the role of a juvenile judge to a community? A: A Juvenile Court Judge has the responsibility to protect children, uphold the law and help strengthen the community. Every decision should balance accountability with the recognition that nobody is perfect, that we all make mistakes and that parents and children will benefit from guidance, structure and appropriate intervention. Promoting a fair and consistent Court will serve to strengthen public confidence in our judicial system, while helping children and families move toward better futures. Q: If elected, how will you balance community needs with juvenile defendants' rights? A: The rule of law requires both fairness and accountability. Every individual who appears before the Court deserves due process and an impartial hearing, while victims and the community deserve protection. I will evaluate each case on its individual facts, apply the law consistently and make decisions that protect public safety and promote rehabilitation whenever possible and appropriate. Q: What do you bring to the table that other candidates might not? A: I bring a combination of proven and extensive legal experience, and a deep appreciation for the Johnson City Juvenile Court and the Johnson City community. I have built and operated a successful business/law practice for the past 17 years in Johnson City, and believe I have the work ethic that will be required for the next Johnson City Juvenile Court Judge to be successful. Also, as the father of children attending Johnson City schools, combined with my legal experience in the Juvenile Court, I understand both the legal responsibilities of the Court and the real life impact that the Court's decisions have on children and families. I believe that experience, together with fairness, integrity and a strong work ethic has prepared me to serve our community in this position well, and I would be honored to have your vote.