Wilson offers legal acumen without ideological bias

It is a common refrain that voters know little to nothing about judicial candidates.

It is for this reason that I am sharing my experiences with Judge Dan Wilson, candidate for the Montana Supreme Court. As someone who has previously appeared as an attorney before Judge Wilson, served as a substitute Justice of the Peace in his court (prior to him being elected as district court judge), served with him in Rotary, and now works with him as a district court judge in the Eleventh Judicial District, I feel uniquely qualified to offer my endorsement.

First, I can speak to Judge Wilson’s legal acumen. When I practiced as a civil defense litigator, I did not always win in front of Judge Wilson. I did, however, always receive an intelligent, legally supported, and well-reasoned legal decision from him.

Judge Wilson presided over a jury trial of mine and impressed me with his ability to quickly and correctly call balls and strikes. Now, as my colleague, I am especially appreciative of his intellect and insight. 

Having taken the bench only a year and a half ago, and now presiding over numerous areas of law that were outside the scope of my practice when I was an attorney, I have often sought on his insight as I learn the ropes, so to speak. In addition to offering sage counsel, he has always been patient and supportive.

Along these lines, Judge Wilson loves the law and follows the law, without ideological bias or the goal of achieving a certain outcome. Judge Wilson is analytical in the manner lawyers are trained. I have not known Judge Wilson to have an agenda of any sort, other than to uphold the rule of law and serve the public fairly.

Finally, I have always found Judge Wilson to be supportive of women, which is important in a traditionally male dominated field. I was honored when he chose me to serve as a substitute justice of the peace, which offered new and interesting opportunities. He later appointed other women to this position as well.

I will be voting for Judge Wilson for Supreme Court justice, and I hope you will consider doing so as well.

Danni Coffman is a district court judge for the 11th Judicial District in Flathead County.