There's always been a mystique about judges, probably based on TV shows and movies we've all seen where the judge is the stern, unsmiling upholder of the law, the one we learn very little about.
While I'm a firm believer that a judge's first priority should be to uphold the law and ensure everyone is treated fairly, I also think it's important voters know the kind of person they could be getting as their new judge. It's important to know about a person's background and interests and why he or she is running for judge. After all, this is Northeastern Minnesota, not Hollywood.
So let me tell a little about myself.
I was born and raised in Duluth. My mom grew up in Hermantown and my dad in Aurora. I graduated with honors from both the University of Minnesota Duluth and the University of Minnesota Law School. For nearly 27 years I have had the privilege of representing many residents throughout the region as a trial attorney. My wife Diana, son Alex and I share our time between Duluth and our cabin on the Caribou Trail. We like hunting, fishing and the typical activities any other family enjoys doing together.
But you're probably asking yourself, "Why should I vote for you as my next judge?" The reason is that experience counts.
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I have handled the extensive variety of cases frequently addressed by judges. My service as an arbitrator and mediator the past 15 years has earned me a reputation as a trusted, thoughtful decision-maker. I have earned from
Martindale-Hubbell, the nationally recognized lawyer rating service, its top rating for legal ability and ethical standards. I've been selected to Best Lawyers in America, and this spring I was listed in Minnesota Monthly as one of the "State's Most Respected Attorneys."
But experience alone isn't what's needed to be an effective judge. You also need a sense of fairness and a respect for people. As someone who has represented people from all walks of life, I have always strived to be respectful of all people, not just those who can afford to hire an attorney. My respect for all people will continue as your judge.
But even with judges life isn't all about the courtroom. I've been honored to serve on the board of directors of the Duluth Area YMCA and the Duluth Community Chaplaincy. I've had fun watching young people develop during my times as a youth soccer and Little League baseball coach. My wife and I both serve in various capacities in our church. And I can think of few things better than taking my wife and son onto a lake to catch that night's walleye dinner.
Voting for a judge is unique in that you and other voters are selecting the person who someday could be presiding over a case of your own. As you're considering the various other candidates running for this seat, I'd be humbled if you felt my background and experience make me the kind of fair-minded person you'd want on that bench when you walked into court.
I'd appreciate your vote for Mike Cuzzo on Aug. 10.
Mike Cuzzo is a Duluth attorney and one of eight candidates for judge in Minnesota's sixth judicial district.
