“I’ve been encouraged for some time to consider the Ruston City Court Judge’s position when it became open,” Smith said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to serve because my years of experience as a prosecutor have prepared me for this role.”
Smith currently serves as the lead assistant district attorney responsible for managing the misdemeanor and juvenile dockets for Lincoln Parish and has prosecuted hundreds of criminal cases. He is well prepared for the type of cases that come before the City Court.
Smith is the only candidate for this position who has prosecutorial experience. That experience has allowed him to work closely with law enforcement officers, court personnel, victims, defendants, attorneys, and families. It has also given him firsthand experience with court accountability, opportunities to help turn young lives around, and results that positively affect the public safety of the community. Mike is committed to serving the residents of Lincoln Parish in a full time capacity if elected.
“Accountability and second chances are not opposites,” Smith said. “We can hold people responsible for their actions while also connecting those who genuinely need help with mentorship, substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and other resources. Helping people become productive members of society benefits the entire community.”
“City Court is where the justice system meets everyday life,” Smith said. “People deserve a court that is fair, respectful, and consistent. The judge’s responsibility is to apply the law with sound judgment, common sense, and fairness to everyone.”
In addition to his work as a prosecutor, Smith maintains a civil law practice, where he has handled disputes, negotiations, and other civil matters.
Smith also has experience managing a real estate business. His background in the courtroom, business, and community gives him a broad understanding of the responsibilities of the City Court Judge.
Smith said the administrative responsibilities of the City Court Judge are also important. In addition to presiding over cases, the judge oversees the City Clerk’s Office and its employees. Smith said operating his law practice and a real estate business has given him experience managing employees, supervising operations, and making business decisions.
Smith praised retiring Judge Danny Tatum for his service and financial stewardship of the court.
If elected, Smith said he wants to preserve the court’s financial stability while making measured improvements where appropriate, including upgrading technology so that agencies can work better together, reduce unnecessary paperwork and red tape, and avoid unnecessary delays.
A lifelong member of the Ruston community, Smith is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Billy Smith. He comes from a family with deep roots in both medicine and public service. His father is one of six brothers, five of whom became physicians. The sixth became a lawyer and served as a judge.
“I credit my family for teaching me to value hard work, personal responsibility, and service to others,” Smith said.
He and his wife, Danielle, a licensed attorney, are raising their three sons in Ruston. Smith is a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Ruston and has been involved with Rotary, Kiwanis, Teach 1 to Lead One, the Boys & Girls Club, United Way, DART, and local school athletic programs.
Smith said he would be honored to serve the people of Lincoln Parish as a full-time Ruston City Court Judge.
The above information has been provided by a political campaign. Unless otherwise noted, the Lincoln Parish Journal publishing staff does not endorse specific candidates or ballot measures.
