Age: 50
Family: Dr. Sondra Avant, Marina Avant-DeLaroche, 13, and Grant Avant-DeLaroche, 11
Occupation: Attorney
Education: B.A., State University of New York at Pottsdam, Juris Doctorate 1989, Stetson University College of Law
Political Experience: Twice elected County Court Judge, Volusia County, Florida.
What do you see as the top three issues in this race?
A circuit court judge needs to be well rounded in all aspects of a variety of different legal subjects, and be exceptionally well educated in the rules of evidence. I have overwhelming experience when compared to my two opponents. I have practiced law longer then the two of them combined. In addition to my previous judicial experience (which included serving as a substitute circuit court judge), I am the only candidate who has served in all four possible legal positions as an attorney in a courtroom. I am also, a graduate of the National Judicial College program in Advanced Trial Evidence.
The largest challenge for courts in Florida is docket overcrowding due to the increase in population, against a static number of judicial positions. My county docket was one of the most efficient in the State of Florida. I introduced numerous programs which simplified functions and saved time while preserving the rights of litigants. I will streamline the procedures of the docket that I am assigned to in order to afford more time to the duties of actually deciding court cases.
Mental illness is an especially vexing problem for the circuit court to manage. Mentally ill people do not belong in jail, however their behavior often brings them into conflict with the law. There are fewer programs to assist these people as an alternative to incarceration. If elected, I will spearhead an effort to increase programs and implementation of a plan to assist these individuals.
Campaign Website: SteveForJudge.com | Facebook
