Many of those in positions of leadership in the court system often serve in elected positions. In many elections, sides often dig up things from another candidate’s personal life that are embarrassing, regrettable, or concerning. Often, these incidents may be decades old.

Do you believe the personal life of a judge, administrator, or clerk should be subject to scrutiny and debate during the election? Is the need to better understand the candidate’s personal ethics greater than the candidate’s right to privacy (or the privacy of his or her family and friends)? Should mistakes made in the past be used to define the candidate? Explain your opinion.

Your journal entry must be at least 200 words in length. No references or citations are necessary.