Kent County Circuit Judge James Robert Redford announced last week that he will officially seek the nomination of the Republican Party for Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court at their convention in August. In conjunction with the announcement, Redford filed the necessary papers with the Secretary of State to launch a campaign committee and begin the process of seeking a position on the State’s highest court.
Redford was first elected to the Kent County Circuit Court in 2002 and re-elected in 2010. He currently serves as the Chief Judge Pro Tem and is responsible for overseeing in excess of 800 civil and criminal cases per year. Prior to taking the bench, Redford served as an Assistant United States Attorney where he prosecuted drug trafficking and money laundering organizations as well as health care and banking fraud; followed by working for five years as a member of one of Michigan’s oldest and largest law firms.
In addition to his civilian career, Judge Redford is a 28-year veteran of the United States Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps, where he held several posts including Commanding Officer of the Navy Reserve Trial Judiciary from 2009-2011. His last assignment was in the office of the Vice Chief of Naval Operations as Legal and Legislative Affairs Counsel. He transferred to retired status in 2012 at the rank of Captain and has been decorated with several awards including the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
When asked why he is running, Redford said: “The people of Michigan have made it clear that they want judges on the Supreme Court that adhere to the rule of law. I am such a judge. A case must be decided based on what the law is. I believe that my experience as a litigator and trial judge in both military and civilian courts and my adherence to a rule of law philosophy will give me a unique perspective and allow me to be of service to all Michigan citizens.”
Redford received his undergraduate degree from John Carroll University and his law degree from the University of Detroit School of Law. He lives with his spouse of twenty seven years Dianne in East Grand Rapids, Michigan. They have three children. If nominated, Redford’s name will appear on the ballot for statewide election in November. If elected, he would be the first Michigan Supreme Court Justice from the Grand Rapids area since 1946.
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