WES WILLIAMS FOR JUDGE 

VOICES OF THE COMMUNITY Part 2

Community Feedback, Part 2

During his first term as circuit court judge, Judge Williams has strived to uphold his campaign promises to ensure equality before the law, treat everyone with respect, and protect citizens' constitutional rights. Below are additional examples of the community feedback and support Judge Williams has received showing he has kept his promises. 

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 12, 2024


Williams is fair and unbiased


I have been following the letters to the editor, testimonials and comments in-person at a meet and greet about Judge Wes Williams.


Again and again, the descriptions of fair and unbiased are used to describe Wes Williams as a judge. This description comes from people across the spectrum of politics and from all different walks of life. There are endorsements for Williams by self-described “lifelong conservatives,” as well as others who are strong liberals, and everything in between.


If you take a walk in La Grande you’ll see “Reelect Judge Wes Williams” signs next to Trump flags, and all different combinations of candidates. I think this exemplifies an ideal and impartial judge. Williams is a judge who appeals to all different people, and not to a single political group.


There is a Facebook testimonial from a woman who describes her and her husband's custody fight for their children in Judge Williams’ court. She describes in detail how with each motion he explained why he had sustained or overruled the motion. Judge Williams took care to show that he was listening and how he was applying the laws of our judicial system. Most importantly, the woman felt that both she and her husband were treated respectfully and that the details of their case were being weighed carefully, with great care for the children involved.


The atmosphere in Judge Williams' courtroom is one of fairness and respect. This is why people from all different backgrounds support him. He is a judge who is known to give each person coming before him a fair trial, without prejudice toward political leanings, personal wealth, religion, or gender.


I hope you will join me in voting to reelect Judge Wes Williams. He is a judge who is fair and unbiased and brings quality to our courts in Union and Wallowa counties.


Sheila Sands, La Grande

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 15, 2024


Williams is exactly what a judge should be


We are proud to support Judge Wes Williams for reelection.


We have known Wes for many years. He was our lawyer long before he was a judge, and the first time we met him, we couldn't believe how down-to-earth he was and so smart. He talked to us so we could understand the situation and spelled out our options clearly so we didn't feel like dummies since we didn't know the legal end.


He was honest with us and always available even for a quick call when we had concerns or questions. He always spelled out the law and was on the up-and-up for all situations. He is exactly what a judge needs to be in his fairness, his temperament and how smart he is to handle all legal aspects of the law!


Please join us in reelecting Judge Williams.


David and Therese Lowry, La Grande

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 12, 2024


Williams deserves our vote this May


Wes Williams is our circuit's judge. He hears all aspects of the cases presented, ponders the merits of and the law involved before rendering a fair and lawful decision. He has served every citizen in our circuit with abject fairness and objectivity. For this reason, perhaps above all else, he deserves our votes in the May election.


David Hayslip, Enterprise

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 14, 2024


Williams is a judge who really listens


I am writing in support of Judge Wes Williams’ reelection. He has the right demeanor for the job.


I was in court when Judge Williams was presiding over a child custody case. Mr. Williams was very thoughtful and considerate to both sides. He listened very carefully and treated all the people involved with respect. I could see that his job to keep the child safe was his primary concern and yet also was thinking about how his decision would affect all the parties involved.


It was encouraging to see a judge really listen and care.


Linda Schreiner, La Grande

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 10, 2024


Community is safer with Judge Williams


I saw Judge Williams in court recently at a contested hearing wherein a beloved family member of mine had to get a stalking protective order. This family member was terrified, and her abuser was contesting the stalking protective order. 


Judge Williams was calm and fair talking to both sides. At one point I was called on to testify. I was so nervous in getting up on the stand, but Judge Williams was patient and explained the process as I was sworn in. He asked clarifying questions when he needed to and listened to both parties when they put on evidence.


He ultimately ruled that the order should be made permanent and that this abusive man could have no contact with her or her children whom he had threatened and tormented. We were so relieved that Judge Williams ensured she was permanently protected from her abuser. He is exactly the judge this community needs!


My family and I feel safer in our community knowing that we have a judge like Judge Williams!


Tara Hanson, La Grande

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 9, 2024


Judge Williams has a true caring for the people who appear before him


I met Wes Williams more than 20 years ago and have seen him in many court situations since then. He has had an active and varied civil law practice, has been a successful criminal defense attorney, and has for the last five and a half years been a full-time judge.


Judge Williams has handled hundreds of cases in courts all over Oregon acting as a visiting judge, and has carried a full load of cases in Union and Wallowa counties. He has done an excellent job in all of those venues and has support from judges across the state and from individuals who have appeared before him in court and have been clients of his over the years of his private practice.


Judge Williams has always listened carefully to his clients and to all parties in court since he was elected judge, and he has always carefully applied the facts of the cases before him in line with the rule of law in all cases. In addition, he writes his opinions after careful consideration and legal research.


Judge Williams has a true caring for the people who appear before him in court and can be trusted to apply the facts of the case under the correct law to reach his decision in every case he hears. In sum, Judge Wes Williams has all the qualities required to continue being an excellent judge for our two counties.


I am supporting Wes Williams as judge for Union and Wallowa counties and encourage all voters to reelect him as circuit court judge.


Dan Ousley, Enterprise

Retired district attorney, Wallowa and Wheeler Counties

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 2, 2024


Reelect Judge Williams and let him do his job


Five years ago, Wes Willams was elected by the people of Union and Wallowa Counties to be our judge. He had by then developed a strong reputation as a good listener, a smart lawyer, and a level-headed person who treats people with dignity.

 

His record as judge has been excellent. In criminal cases his decisions have never been appealed by the prosecution. In civil cases some of his decisions have been appealed, but all of them have been affirmed in the end. Just recently a case of his was appealed to the Oregon Supreme Court, and Judge Williams’ decision was upheld. He knows what he’s doing.

 

However, since April 2020, our district attorney has misused a statute to override our vote and keep Judge Williams from hearing criminal cases. Though Williams has plenty of civil cases here to keep him working full time, he hasn’t been able to hear the 20% of cases that are criminal. This is true even though district attorneys in Malheur, Grant, and Harney Counties have no issue with him hearing their criminal cases.  It disturbs me to think that a district attorney in Oregon can have that much power. It feels unconstitutional – allowing one branch of government (the executive; i.e., the DA) to stop another branch of government (the judiciary) from doing its job. 

 

Thankfully, Oregon Senate Bill 807 passed last year and changed this unfair practice. As of January 1, 2024 the Oregon Legislature greatly increased the likelihood that Oregon judges will be allowed to hear all types of cases – just as we elected them to. 

 

Let’s reelect Judge Williams so that he can continue to do good work for us in both civil and criminal cases.


Anne March, La Grande

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: March 26, 2024


Impressed with Williams' wisdom and integrity


We have known Wes Williams for about 15 years. His demeanor and intellect alone are enough for us to support him as our circuit court judge; however, our public endorsement is based on his character, which we were fortunate to witness firsthand.


He was advising a potential client about legal challenges the person was facing. Among the nuggets he offered was: “Tell the truth, even if you think it will hurt you.” We think this was a meaningful moment for the person, and that it reflects Wes’ belief in the power and importance of truth.


Wes Williams’ wisdom and integrity made a lasting impression on us, which is why we are happy to endorse him for circuit court judge. 


Robin and Peter Maille, La Grande

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: March 20, 2024


Williams will protect our constitutional rights


As a lifelong conservative, I support Judge Wes Williams’ re-election. I am confident he will continue to protect our constitutional rights and not put government interests above ours.


My belief is furthered by Judge Robert S. Raschio’s endorsement of Judge Williams. Judge Raschio, the Harney County judge, recently protected our Second Amendment rights, which were threatened by Measure 114. Judge Raschio’s endorsement is on Judge Williams’ website,  weswilliamsforjudge.org. I encourage you to read it and other statements of support.


The citizens of Union and Wallowa counties need to keep Judge Williams as our elected judge.


Allan Duffy, Elgin

The writer is a former mayor of Elgin and former chair of the Union County Republicans.

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 1, 2024


We need Williams to stay on the bench


I am writing to express my strong support for the reelection of Wes Williams as circuit court judge in the upcoming election.


Before becoming judge, he was my attorney on a variety of matters. Now, having known Wes for over 20 years, I can attest to his unwavering dedication to the law, integrity, and his exceptional qualifications for this crucial role.


Throughout Wes's tenure as a judge, he has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to upholding the principles of fairness, impartiality, and justice. His extensive legal knowledge, combined with his keen understanding of the law and its application, has enabled him to preside over cases with wisdom and discernment.


Moreover, Wes possesses invaluable qualities that are essential for a judge, including patience, empathy, and a profound respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals who come before the court. His compassionate approach to adjudication ensures that each case is heard with care and consideration, regardless of its complexity, magnitude, or politics of the parties involved.


Our community faces unprecedented challenges, and we need experienced and principled leaders like Wes to continue serving on the bench. I have full confidence that he will continue to uphold the highest standards of excellence and fairness in his role as a judge.


I urge my fellow community members to join me in supporting Wes's reelection campaign. His proven track record, unwavering commitment to the law and justice, and profound dedication to our community make him the ideal candidate to continue serving as circuit court judge.


John Cavin, Cove

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 1, 2024


Williams deserves reelection to the bench


I support reelecting Judge Wes Williams this May. He has a sound grasp of both criminal and civil law, having served as both an attorney in private practice for many years and currently as a Union and Wallowa County judge.


I was impressed to learn that out of the thousands of decisions Judge Williams has made, including both civil and criminal cases, only one was overturned by the Court of Appeals. Prosecutors have never even appealed a decision of Judge Williams. Not once.


That’s why I was dismayed to hear that the Union County district attorney, appointed in 2014 by then-Gov. John Kitzhaber, consistently disqualifies Judge Williams from hearing criminal cases. In doing so, she purposely chooses to assign them to Union and Wallowa County’s other judge, appointed by Gov. Kate Brown. Why would that be? 


That question led me to ask about the practice of disqualifying judges and I learned that Senate Bill 807 went into effect on Jan. 1, allowing judges to challenge any motion for disqualification that would deny assignments to criminal or juvenile delinquency dockets. The right to disqualify is protected, but now judges can rightfully challenge abuse and overreach that serve agendas rather than justice.


I look forward to Judge Williams winning reelection and then challenging the district attorney's disqualifications in a SB 807 hearing.


Sharon A. Barrick, La Grande

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: April 1, 2024


Williams is committed to the rule of law


It is a pleasure to write this letter in support of Wes Williams for reelection to the Circuit Court of Union and Wallowa Counties. Judge Williams has a record of making fair and legally correct decisions. Of the numerous decisions that Judge Williams has made, he has had only one decision overturned. Prosecutors have never even appealed a decision by Judge Williams. Not once.


He's had over 27 years legal experience, first as a lawyer for 22 years, and now as judge for five years. During this time, Judge Williams has been involved in thousands of criminal and civil cases. He knows his way around a courtroom.


However, it's not just Judge Williams' legal experiences that are impressive; it's also his work ethic, his family values and his passion for the legal profession that gives me confidence that he should be reelected.


Judge Williams is supported by community leaders, small business owners, farmers, ranchers and citizens throughout both Union and Wallowa counties.

Judge Williams is deliberate and committed to the rule of law.


Please join me in voting to reelect Judge Wes Williams.


Chris Geyer, Joseph

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: March 26, 2024


Judge Williams cares deeply about the law


We’ve known Wes Williams since he first arrived to practice law in La Grande and raise a family with his wife, Jen. What really told us who he was was a book we gave him a few years later as a Christmas gift. It was about a lawsuit and the trial that resulted, and it was like giving water to a thirsty man. Wes was excited about the case and the legal arguments it described. We saw someone who cares deeply about the legal system, what it means and how it works. 


When he was in private practice we knew, for example, that he continued to seek and find justice for a woman’s estate over many years, even though she did not live long enough to see compensation. 


The many testimonials he’s received from clients and lawyers who’ve been in his courtroom make it clear Judge Williams brings that commitment to the cases before him. He cares deeply about the law and that a judgment is made fairly. In our years knowing him, we’ve come to the conclusion that he is what he appears to be: honest, considerate of everyone, and dedicated to the law. 


As a community, we were wise to make him our choice when he first ran for circuit court judge. We know that courtroom decisions will continue to be on solid ground by voting him in again. Please join us in making him your choice also. 


Norm Cimon, La Grande

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: March 19, 2024


Three reasons to reelect Wes Williams


In 2013, I moved to La Grande and began to work for Judge Wes Williams who, at that time, was an attorney in our local community.  When I worked for him I observed three things that he did that set him apart from any boss I ever had.  I would like to share these three things with those considering voting for him. 


One, Judge Williams had an incredible work ethic.  Wes was always the first in the office and the last to leave.  He worked weekends, he worked holidays, and if there was a job to be done, despite the time of day, he did the job and he did it well.  He interspersed this hard work with a short nap after lunch and the strongest cup of "rocket fuel" (coffee!) you have ever tasted. 


Two, Wes has the most professional and level-headed demeanor I have ever witnessed.  He was firm when he needed to be, and practical, reliable, articulate, compassionate and understanding at all times.  He carefully explained the law and potential consequences and ramifications with consideration and unmatched attention to detail.  As a judge, he has continued to act in this same manner when working with all parties in the courtroom.


Three, Wes is honest, transparent and genuine.  His actions are driven by integrity and his adherence to his strong principles, trust and faith in the Constitution and the laws that govern our county and country.  I have seen repeatedly in both my personal and professional dealings with Wes, while watching him in court as an attorney, and while watching him in court as the judge.  I would trust Wes to make the ethical decision and the right decision, time and time again, for myself, or someone I love.  I have faith that he is a man of strong character and that he values the law and his role in enforcing the law. 


I wholeheartedly support Wes Williams and his reelection campaign.  We need strong and honest community leaders, and his is one of them!


Kaitlyn Gekeler, La Grande

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: March 19, 2024


Judge Williams judges fairly and without bias


I am writing to encourage continued support for Wes Williams as Union and Wallowa County Circuit Court Judge.  I had the opportunity to work at the Law Office of Wes Williams as his legal assistant for four years.  Wes' passion for the law and the right to a fair trial is superior.  I have never known anyone more devoted to his profession or hardworking than Wes Williams


It was a pleasure working with Wes.  He mentored his support team, was patient and encouraging, and welcomed others' thoughts and ideas.  He was an extremely intelligent, tireless, dauntless and passionate attorney.  He took the time to get to know his clients, was an attentive listener, and performed meticulous legal research.  He was well prepared, professional and treated everyone with honor and respect.  As such, Wes was not only well liked by his team and clients; he was also well respected by his colleagues. 


Please consider reelecting Wes Williams when casting your vote.  I know Wes Williams personally and professionally and can attest that Wes will judge fairly and without bias. 


Michelle Hines, Echo

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: March 19, 2024


Williams has the right temperament and experience


I am writing to support the reelection of Judge Wes Williams to the Union and Wallowa County Circuit Court Bench.  He deserves our support.


I served as a circuit court judge in Umatilla and Morrow counties, and as a senior judge for the state of Oregon, for over 21 years.  During that time, I have gotten to know Judge Williams quite well, both as a lawyer appearing in my court and as a colleague in the practice of law.


As an attorney, Wes was always prepared to represent his clients in a professional and competent manner.  As my former judicial colleague Judge Christopher Brauer mentioned in an earlier letter to the editor, the judges in our district always looked forward to having Wes appear before them, due to his diligent preparation, his zealous and measurer advocacy, and the manner in which he presented his cases.  He was an outstanding trial lawyer, and a gentleman, both inside and outside of court. 


Judge Williams is always able and willing to shoulder his share of the judicial burden in Union and Wallowa counties.  He can hear over 80% of the cases on the docket.  With the passage of Senate Bill 807, requiring DA offices to provide proof of bias before blanket disqualification of judges from the criminal docket, I am confident Judge Williams will soon be able to hear the remaining 20% of the docket. 


Judge Williams is the only candidate in this race with judicial experience.  He also brings to the bench a broad and deep history of legal experience going back nearly 30 years.  He has the judicial temperament to be a patient listener and a fair decision-maker.  I strongly urge the voters of Union and Wallowa counties to keep this experience jurist on the bench. 


Jeffrey Wallace, The Dalles

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: March 19, 2024


Judge Williams is a man of integrity


It is with the greatest pleasure that I write this letter of support for Wes Williams for Union-Wallowa Circuit Court judge.


I have known Wes for 12 years, first as his legal secretary, then after I moved away, as a family friend.  I was hired by him in 2012; accepting the job was the best decision I ever made.  I was blessed with a great boss and friend for life.  My husband and I visit with Wes and his wife whenever we come to town, including at the Elgin Stampede.


Wes cares deeply about the law and was a great teacher.  He shared his legal expertise with me, furthering my career tenfold.  Working alongside Wes was inspiring and intriguing.  He was not only an amazing attorney, but also respectful, honest and caring.  He worked hard - well beyond a 40-hour work week - taking catnaps in the afternoon to recharge for his busy afternoons. 


The above qualities - intelligence, hardworking, and compassion - made Wes a great boss, attorney, and now an exceptional judge for the people.  He is the type of judge all people should be so lucky to come before, especially when experiencing difficult times. 


Please consider the candidates and reelect Judge Williams; a man with integrity and who will be honest to whomever comes before him.


Cindy Noffke Herron, Sisters

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: March 11, 2024


Judge Williams is fair and compassionate


I met Wes Williams when I was younger and had seen my share of lawyers. I had been mistreated by judges and lawyers so many times that I had no trust in the legal system.


When I met Mr. Williams, he was my aunt’s lawyer. He was always fair, considerate, and kind. He had a heart with compassion, yet he was also one who followed the law. He never thought he was better than anyone else because of his status as a lawyer. He fought hard for my aunt, and never stopped since he knew the facts of the case and truly cared.


Then years later, seeing Mr. Williams as a judge, I gained even more respect when he proved to be the same person as a judge as he had been as a lawyer. He is fair, shows compassion and has morals. He knows the law and is fair to both sides. 


Please vote to reelect Judge Williams.

 

Vixen Radford-Wecks, Joseph

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 26, 2024


Williams is worthy of a second term


When I was the Umatilla County District Attorney, I always enjoyed when my office had a case where Wes Williams was the defense attorney. He was prepared, respectful, had full command of the facts and law, and quick on his feet. He was an admirable opponent.

 

In 2007, I left the District Attorney’s office to become a circuit court judge for Umatilla and Morrow Counties. Over the next decade, I looked forward to having Mr. Williams in my court, representing people in both civil and criminal cases.

 

Now, as a fellow judge, I know Mr. Williams to have the right character and demeanor for the job. In addition to the above qualities, he is patient and dedicated to the rule of law. It is impressive that in five years as judge, he has only been reversed once – for giving a criminal defendant too much community service. 

 

Judge Williams has my endorsement. He is a judge who personifies intelligence, integrity and honor. Wes is an incumbent worthy of a second term and your consideration when casting your vote. Vote Wes Williams.

 

Christopher Brauer, Senior Judge, Pendleton

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 26, 2024


Williams in action is impressive


We have an opportunity to reelect Judge Wes Williams in the May election this year.

 

You have probably read testimonials in favor of his re-election and I too support that. But we have a unique way to make decisions for ourselves about judicial candidates – watch them in action. I did and I was impressed by Judge Williams.

 

I found a court date that sounded interesting and attended a hearing. I found Judge Williams to be a very engaged judge, listening, questioning and even helping the lawyers on both sides to give him a better picture of the issue before him.

 

If you are unsure how to vote, watch Judge Williams. Search for Oregon Judicial Department > Court Records and Calendars > Circuit and Tax Court Calendars. From there search by “Judicial Officer” and enter the date range that works for you. I think you will be as impressed as I was.   


Dan White, La Grande

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 27, 2024


Judge Williams — fairness, patience and respect


I’m voting to reelect Wes Williams judge in Union and Wallowa counties, and I hope you will too. Here’s why:


Some years ago, after the citizens of Union County chose me to be their district attorney, I charged a man with serious crimes with complex facts; Wes Williams represented him in trial. Williams was better prepared than any other attorney I’d ever gone against. It was obvious that he’d worked hard with his client, with the witnesses, and with the police reports. But even more important, his demeanor in the courtroom was exceptional. He was respectful to every person: to the judge and court staff, to the witnesses who testified against his client, to the victim, and to me, the district attorney prosecuting the case. And he acted the same way in every case throughout my tenure as district attorney.


Those qualities have carried over to his performance as judge these last five years. He gets high marks for fairness and patience in every courtroom in which he serves.


We have a good thing in Judge Williams. Let’s reelect him.


Martin J. Birnbaum, retired Union County District Attorney, La Grande

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 28, 2024


Judge Williams is honest, hardworking


I have known Wes Williams for at least 20 years and have always known him to be family - and community - oriented.  When I lived in La Grande, I enjoyed seeing him and his young family walking around town with their dog in tow, visiting local restaurants and businesses.


Later, when he was my family's lawyer, I got to see him in his professional capacity.  He was honest, prepared, hardworking and very good in the courtroom.  These skills also make him a good judge.


I am voting to reelect Judge Williams


Deena Perin, Joseph

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 21, 2024


Judge Williams is a true professional


I support Wes Williams for judge in Union and Wallowa counties. I have known Wes for 15 years, and during that time period I’ve never taken away anything other than that he is a person with a blue-collar work ethic and a man with respect for others. Wes studies his craft and continues to keep up with current legislation, changes in laws, and current state events. He is a true professional.


Wes and his wife are outdoor enthusiasts, so he knows the values of the people in Union and Wallowa counties. People who live where we do appreciate these types of values. I know Wes to listen to others and to be a great person of our community, in touch with the people in our part of the state. Wes is often seen at local establishments and is not standoffish at all. He’s down to earth and approachable and never acts like he’s better than anyone else. In fact, he’ll go out of his way to say hello. It is my great hope that we the people will re-elect Wes Williams for judge.


Bart Hofmann, Summerville

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 20, 2024


Competence and compassion welcome in the courtroom


Courtroom appearances are often the cause of anxiety and grief. If you are lucky enough to be on the docket before Judge Wes Williams, you can count on fair treatment with competence and compassion.

 

It’s reassuring to be treated with courtesy. Judge Williams makes every effort to understand your circumstances, to see that your case is being judged fairly with a thorough knowledge of the law.

 

Consider the candidates. It’s important to keep Wes Williams, a valuable and experienced judge, in District 10. 

 

Debera White, La Grande

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 13, 2024


Fortunate to have Wes Williams as judge


I have known Wes Williams since I was the Union police chief and he was a La Grande attorney. He is a man of many fine attributes that can serve the people of Northeast Oregon. Over the years, we communicated on several cases, and I always found him to be calm, professional, objective, honest and open-minded. 

 

Judge Williams is competent and highly intelligent without being an intellectual. He can comprehend a great amount of detailed information and understand whether and how it applies to a case. He follows the facts, wherever they may lead, without prejudice. 

 

Even though I left the area to serve in law enforcement elsewhere, my wife and I still own property in Union County and may return one day. I was delighted to hear Wes was now a trial judge in our old home ground. The people of Union and Wallowa counties are fortunate to have him. I cannot imagine anyone better for the post.

 

I fully endorse Wes Williams for reelection as Union County’s circuit court judge.

 

Dean Muchow, former Union police chief, Gladstone

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 13, 2024


Our community needs Judge Williams

 

I was a witness in a case Judge Williams oversaw. Judge Williams was such a fair judge; he never came off as biased and showed both parties the same amount of respect regardless of what evidence was given. 

 

He always went out of his way to explain things for the people who didn’t have attorneys. He was kind and patient with everyone who entered the courtroom. He doesn’t act better than us and just treats people like people. 

 

As soon as my husband and I found out Judge Williams was running for reelection, we had no hesitation about who we would be voting for. Our community needs Judge Williams.


Sophia Howell, Cove

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 7, 2024


Why I support reelecting Williams


I support Judge Wes Williams’ re-election bid. I have known Wes for more than 35 years, going back to the time when we were both teaching at Sandy High School. Wes was an extremely accomplished U.S. history teacher. He was also the mock trial and tennis coach. On many occasions when I had a free period, I would drop in on Wes’ classes to observe and in doing so, learn from a great teacher. He was Oregon’s mentor teacher of the year two years running.


Wes was a master teacher in all respects, but most impressive to me was the respect he showed his students and how that respect was returned. 


Wes left teaching in the early 1990s to become an attorney. He practiced law in La Grande for 22 years before becoming our local trial judge in 2019. The same traits that made Wes a great teacher made him an outstanding attorney and now judge. His hard work and preparation, his respectful treatment of all people, his fairness and thoughtfulness – these qualities make up the bedrock of Wes’ character and make him an outstanding judge for the people. Please join me in re-electing Judge Williams.


Tim Troutman, retired Elgin social studies teacher, La Grande

Wallowa County Chieftain

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: February 7, 2024


Reelect Williams to the bench


Wes Williams was my attorney.  He was not afraid to take on the federal government, which was infringing on my property rights.  He was always thoughtful, hard-working, prepared and very good at his job. 


He is just as good as a judge.  I have had the opportunity to observe Wes in court.  He listened intently to each party.  He was calm, patient and took his time to ultimately make a fair decision. 


I encourage you to vote Wes Williams for judge in Wallowa County.


Kathy Lepper Bobbitt, Enterprise

La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: January 30, 2024


We can place our trust in Wes Williams


I encourage voters in Union and Wallowa counties to reelect Wes Williams as your Circuit Court Judge. 


I have known Wes both personally and professionally for many years. I’ve always been impressed by his fairness toward all others, as well as his absolute integrity. Add these characteristics to his comprehensive knowledge and experience in both civil and criminal law, and you have a man in which you can place your trust. 

 

Please join me in voting Wes Williams for Union/Wallowa Circuit Court Judge.


Gary Lillard, La Grande


La Grande Observer

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: October 3, 2023


Judge Williams' work ethic is beyond reproach.


I was an elected Circuit Court Judge in Umatilla and Morrow counties for 18 years. I was also the Presiding Judge for four years. I have known Judge Wes Williams for 25 years, both as an attorney and a judge. I read Jared Boyd's press release and would like to correct an inaccuracy. Mr. Boyd claims he is the only candidate who can "handle a full load of cases and work full time:' This is not accurate.


Judge Williams is able to handle more than a full load of cases, and he does work full time. I know from my judicial experience that for various reasons judges are not able to handle 100% of the cases filed in their jurisdiction. Judge Williams is one of two judges that serve Union and Wallowa counties. A full-time caseload would involve handling 50% of all cases filed Based upon the Oregon Judicial Department's most recent statistics, Judge Williams can handle approximately 70% of the cases filed in Union County in 2022. Therefore, he can handle more than a full-time caseload.


Judge Williams also serves Wallowa County. The Oregon Judicial Department's statistics for 2022 show that Judge Williams can handle approximately 75% of all cases filed in Wallowa County. Therefore, Judge Williams can handle more than a full-time caseload in Wallowa County as well.


It concerns me that Mr. Boyd has incorrectly represented Judge Williams' workload. Moreover, Judge Williams' strong work ethic is beyond reproach.


He would willingly handle more than his share, if given the opportunity. You elected Judge Williams. I urge you to reelect Judge Williams in 2024.


Jeff Wallace, Retired Circuit Court Judge, Umatilla and Morrow Counties

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