To the editor:

I have had the opportunity to work with Lincoln County Circuit Judge Sheryl Bachart for the past 23 years. I began my career in law enforcement in 1997 around the same time Sheryl Bachart was hired in the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office as a deputy DA. As a new deputy with limited experience, I often reviewed my case investigations with her and was always met with a helping hand. Her extensive knowledge of the law was undeniable and she would never stand for mediocrity. I always appreciated her advice as I aimed to improve my investigative skills and the service I was providing to our citizens.

Judge Bachart has always placed a high level of expectation on the law enforcement community to complete thorough and well documented case investigations to ensure our enforcement decisions were based on fact, supported by evidence, and just as importantly, fair to all involved.

In her time serving on the bench, Judge Bachart has consistently demonstrated fairness, decisiveness and effective communication. She places high expectation on attorneys presenting in her courtroom to ensure they are providing fair and adequate counsel for their clients as well as law enforcement and other professional witnesses presenting facts and evidence. She treats all parties equally and ensures they are heard. She demonstrates a balance of empathy for crime victims while also ensuring the rights of defendants are met.

Judge Bachart has dedicated her entire career to improving the quality of life for all of us in Lincoln County and has done so with honor, integrity, and character. Most importantly, she has done so in a fair and impartial manner.

I urge all Lincoln County voters to join me in re-electing Sheryl Bachart as Lincoln County Circuit Court Judge.

— Adam Shanks, Newport