Magistrate Melissa Kobasher, Avon Lake Municipal Judge Darrel Bilancini vie to become next Common Pleas Judge

Darrel Bilancini Age: 68 Party: Republican Education: Lorain Catholic High School, 1971; bachelor's degree, John Carroll University, 1975; Cleveland Marshall College of Law, 1978 Family: wife Cindy; three children Job History: Avon Lake Municipal Court judge, 2006 to present; attorney, Fauver, Keyse-Walker and Donovan, 2013-14; attorney, Savoy and Bilancini, 1982-2012; Lorain County Juvenile Court magistrate, 1979-1981; City of Cleveland Law Department, 1977; City of Lorain Law Department, 1976 Website: BilanciniForJudge.com Melissa Kobasher Age: 35 Party: Democratic Education: Wellington High School; associate degree in criminal justice, Lorain County Community College; bachelor's degree in political science and American studies; law degree with special certificate in criminal law from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law Family: husband Nick; two children Job History: magistrate, Lorain County Common Pleas Judge Christopher Rothgery's courtroom for five years; magistrate, Lorain County Domestic Relations Court; attorney in private practice, assistant prosecutor, criminal defense and family law attorney. Website: KobasherForJudge.com Two jurists are vying to be the newest judge in the Lorain County Common Pleas Court General Division in the Nov. 8 election. Avon Lake Municipal Judge Darrel Bilancini, a Republican, and Common Pleas magistrate Melissa Kobasher, a Democrat, are seeking to fill the seat on the bench that will be open with the retirement of Judge Mark Betleski at the end of the year. What makes you the best candidate for the position? Bilancini: I learned how crucial the character, integrity and knowledge of a judge is by litigating hundreds of cases over the years. I am the best choice for judge because my colleagues have given me the very highest ratings in integrity and character and selected me as the only candidate to be highly recommended for this Court of Common Pleas judgeship. This recognition comes from my years of courtroom and bench experience, and I am grateful for it — because their recommendation comes from members who know me, and confirms the way I have tried to live my personal and professional life. Kobasher: I have the most relevant experience as a current judicial officer in the court. I am responsible for hearings, motions and engaging with attorneys and litigants. With Judge Rothgery, I manage the most efficient civil docket in the division. I have experience presiding over a jury trial in the court and I am familiar with the cases being handled. I was ranked "highly recommended" for character and integrity by my peers. I take pride in having an unmatched work ethic, firm knowledge of the law and ability to make unbiased decisions that bring positive changes in the community. What is the biggest challenge facing the common pleas court and how would you address it? Bilancini: The biggest challenge facing the court of common pleas is its response to the growing problem of opioid addiction. Opioid addiction (especially synthetic opioids) has increased thefts, robberies and gun violence. I'm optimistic about the Lorain County Crisis Receiving Center, an integrated plan for addiction resources. But whether you call it a stick or a carrot, those "thriving on" and those "suffering from" this addiction must be arrested and adjudicated in a manner that protects our community's right to freedom from fear. Those found guilty but wanting to live drug-free should have considerations — but only if recovery progress is clearly documented to the court's satisfaction. Kobasher: There is a lack of confidence in the judicial system — whether related to politics, the lack of diverse representation, inefficiently managed dockets or inconsistent resolutions. To instill confidence in our court, I will focus on fairly and efficiently resolving cases and will ensure a strong and independent court focused on public service. I am experienced in running a fair and efficient docket and dedicated to bringing a strong work ethic if elected. Courts should be understandable and accessible with technology and an engaged judge. If elected, I bring diversity to the bench and lasting change for the next generation of judges.