Editor,

In more than 45 years of practicing law in Washington state, mostly off the island, I have practiced before all of the Island County judges, from Howard Patrick forward.

I had an opportunity to form some opinions as to the qualities we should expect to find in a judge. I can’t say which is more important, because they all are, but a sense of fairness, knowledge of the law, objectivity and decisiveness are all vital.

Experience with the workings of the legal world is also important.

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Kathleen Petrich and studying her resume. Her experience is very impressive. Educated both as a mechanical engineer and as a lawyer, she used both disciplines to forge a very successful career as a partner in a nationally known law firm. She has demonstrated objectivity and empathy in all of her endeavors. She has, in good measure, all of the qualities a great judge would demonstrate. We have a rare opportunity to make her a part of our judicial system.

I enthusiastically support Kathleen’s candidacy, and I hope the voters of Island County do so as well.

Robert C. Alexander

Langley