I was happy to hear that Judge Gorss is seeking another term as Town of Montgomery Justice. I would be honored if you would consider my letter in support of his re-election. Judge Gorss has been a staple in the Town for many years and I am fortunate to call him a friend. The basis of support does not rest solely on personal grounds, it Is also rooted in my first-hand knowledge of Fred’s performance as Town Justice. I feel Judge Gorss is highly capable, experience, and well-suited for the bench.

Early in my tenure as Village Justice, I faced difficult situations which were made easier with an answer to a question or two. However, the Office of Justice Court Support was not open in the middle of the night.

Likewise, Supreme, County and Family Courts did not operate on the weekends or beyond normal business hours. It is my understanding that a countywide off-hour arraignment court now exists. But during my time on the bench, the only resource available to a Town or Village Justice in the middle of the night was another Town or Village Justice.

Judge Gorss was always gracious with his time and literally “answered the call,” occasionally in the wee hours. Fred was involved in the Magistrates’ Association, which serves a vital role informing and training judges on the ever-changing landscape of criminal, civil and landlord-tenant law. On the personal level, whenever asked, Fred would share his proficiency in criminal procedure and court process with me. Fred’s knowledge and experience were extremely valuable to me, which in turn served to strengthen our judiciary.

In my opinion, since my departure, Albany has added several degrees of difficulty to the job of presiding over a local criminal court. Your Town and Village Justices are in no way responsible for policy decisions implemented by the legislature. Regardless of those decisions, whatever the law may command, Judge Gorss will continue to uphold it and ensure his court operates in a just manner and free from external influence.