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Frequently asked questions
Christopher Candela is a candidate for Circuit Court Judge in Livingston County and an experienced prosecutor. He has handled complex criminal cases, appellate work, and constitutional legal issues, building a reputation for fairness, thorough preparation, and respect for the rule of law. He also has experience in family and civil law.
I’m running for judge because I’ve seen firsthand how much the quality and integrity of a judge matter—not just to the people in the courtroom, but to the entire community. Every decision from the bench has real consequences for families, public safety, and confidence in our legal system.
Throughout my career, I’ve built a reputation for fairness, thorough legal analysis, and respect for the rule of law. I’ve handled complex cases, worked through difficult legal issues, and made decisions grounded in facts—not personal agendas. That experience has shown me what good judging looks like—and what happens when courts lose sight of their proper role.
I’m running to bring a steady, disciplined approach to the bench—one rooted in applying the law as written, treating every person with respect, and ensuring that our courts remain fair, impartial, and accountable. Our community deserves a judge who will do the job the right way, for years to come.
Not all experience is the same. When it comes to being a great judge, quality experience matters more than quantity.
Christopher offers years of quality experience that prepares him to serve our community starting on day one.
Appellate experience sharpens legal analysis and ensures decisions are grounded in law, not impulse. It teaches how to apply precedent, protect constitutional rights, and build a clear record. handling appeals helps you identify errors and prevent them from happening. That perspective helps a trial judge make accurate rulings, avoid reversible error, and deliver decisions that are fair, consistent, and built to withstand scrutiny.
The role of a judge is to say what the law is, not what the law should be. Judges should apply the law as written, respect the constitution and remain impartial. Judges should not legislate from the bench or allow personal beliefs to influence decisions.
A good judge is fair, impartial, and consistent. They listen carefully, apply the law as written, and treat everyone in the courtroom with respect. Judicial temperament—patience, professionalism, and the ability to remain neutral—is just as important as legal knowledge.
A judge’s role is not to be “tough” or “lenient,” but to be fair. Every case is different, and decisions should be based on the facts, the law, and the appropriate sentencing factors—not labels or personal preference.
Everyone who enters the courtroom will be treated with dignity and respect. Whether someone is a victim, defendant, attorney, or witness, they deserve to be heard and treated professionally. Respect builds trust in the judicial system.
I’m proud to have support from members of the legal community and local leaders who believe in my commitment to fairness, integrity, and the rule of law. See my endorsement section for more information.
You can support the campaign by volunteering, spreading the word, hosting a meet-and-greet, or making a contribution. Every conversation helps build a campaign focused on fairness and the rule of law.
Donations can be made online at Donate | Christopher Candela, or by sending a check made out to Christopher Candela for Circuit Court Judge to P.O. Box 846, Brighton, MI 48116.
You can contact Christopher by sending an email to info@candelaforjudge.com or by sending a message via Facebook Messenger.
The primary election will be held on August 4, 2026, and the general election will be held on November 3, 2026.
You can vote for Christopher Candela for 44th Circuit Court Judge by selecting his name on the non-partisan section of your ballot.