My last official duty with the Hamilton County Sheriffs Department was that of being a court officer assigned to the Sessions and Criminal Courts in Hamilton County. By doing this, I and other court officers got to know the judges just about as well as anyone connected to the courts. It was an honor to serve in such a capacity.

I always paid close attention to the County Commission appointments when it became necessary for them to fill a Sessions Court vacancy. Some have been good, some not and two in particular were in my opinion outstanding. 

In 1982 the first outstanding pick was that of Judge Clarence Shattuck who succeeded Judge Raulston Schoolfield. A majority Republican Commission chose Democrat Shattuck over other foes. Great pick. 

This past year has seen my choice as the second best pick. This is that of Judge David Norton, a man of much judicial prudence and professionalism. 

Now it is time for the citizens of Hamilton County to go out and vote for Judge David Norton.

The General Sessions Court judges are a solid group of men and one lady. These judges bring to the court the highest qualities and professionalism. A vote for Judge Norton would make this group the best to serve this county in many of years.

Please, I urge everyone to vote for Judge David Norton. 

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I’m proud to support Judge David Norton for Sessions Court in this summer’s general election.
 Norton served as assistant county attorney for 28 years, dealing daily with legal issues vital to Hamilton County. Concurrently, he was elected city judge in Soddy Daisy for three consecutive terms. 

His experience in the county attorney’s office and as a municipal judge have served him well in the Sessions Court judgeship to which he was appointed after Judge Bob Moon’s untimely death earlier this year. Norton is making a difference. He deserves to keep the job.

Knowing Norton personally, I saw this self-effacing public servant voluntarily give up a municipal judgeship and a career position in the county attorney’s office in order to serve where needed in Sessions Court. He’s doing a great job, as evidenced by overwhelming support he received in a Chattanooga Bar Association candidate preference poll conducted last month.  

Judge Norton is not only committed to Sessions Court but is highly respected by the professionals who rely on a non-partial judgement when presenting their cases. To me, these are high recommendations to keep him on the bench. 

Please join me this summer in voting for David Norton for General Sessions judge.  

Kay Parish
Chattanooga