news-record.com

Office you seek
District Court Judge Guilford County

Date of  birth
April 22, 1963

Occupation
Private Practice Attorney

Address
Guilford County
Web site/e-mail
votefoster08@yahoo.com
electfoster@aol.com

Education
Bachelor of  Science - Tennessee State University
Juris Doctorate  North Carolina Central University School of Law

Elective experience
None

Professional credentials (specialized training or experience)
My professional credential is my Juris Doctorate Degree. As an Assistant Public Defender, I received specialized training and I continue to take Continuing Legal Education (CLE) classes to maintain my knowledge of the law. 

Family
My Husband and I have 5 children ranging in age from 6 to 23.

Why have you chosen to run for this office?
I have chosen to run for District Court Judge because I want to serve the people Guilford County.

What distinguishes you most from your opponent?
My professional experience includes work in every courtroom on the District Court level for the last 10 years. I have seen the law from different view points. Personally, I am a working mother of five children. I understand the value of time management, mediation and conflict resolution.

What key qualifications would you bring to the job?
I have the ability to listen and problem solve, not problem shuffle.

Are you qualified to preside in every courtroom or willing to gain the necessary qualifications?
Yes to both questions. I have worked in every courtroom on the District Court level. Moreover, I am willing to learn as I work to perform at the highest level for the people of Guilford County.

Where do you see the greatest shortcomings in District Court, and how could they be corrected?
The District Court in Greensboro is currently undergoing renovations which I believe will resolve shortcomings related to the overflow of cases. In High Point, I believe services such as Drug Court and Mental Health Court are being implemented to sufficiently resolve issues related to additional programs designed to effectively enforce probation, pre and post trial services.

Does everyone receive equal justice in District Court, regardless of race, ethnic origin, gender, language, income or legal representation? If not what measures could help?
I would hope that everyone is receiving equal justice in District Court. I recognize the fact that many citizens believe everyone is not receiving equal justice. That is why my goal will be to ensure equal justice by following the letter of the law.

In criminal matters, is enough done to ensure that dangerous offenders aren't releases prior to trial with insufficient supervision?
I would hope that the court system is doing everything within its power and authority to ensure the safety of the citizens of this community.

How can the court system help steer troubled young people away from gangs or further criminal activity?
As the daughter of educators, I believe in education. I believe that education combats ignorance and self destruction. The court system must continue to utilize community based programs to educate our young people to stay away from gang activity.

What are the common mistakes judges make, and how can you avoid them?
I am not aware of any general mistakes that judges make. I can only state that I plan to listen, be respectful of all participants and be fair.

How can voters judge your abilities?
The courtrooms are open to the general public, which allows them the opportunity to view me in action. Also, there were letters written to the News & Record editor during April and May 2008 which spoke to my abilities as a lawyer.