Circuit 32, Division 1 Judge candidate Trae Bertrand

__Name:__ Trae Bertrand

__Age:__ 36

__Place of birth:__ Tulsa, Oklahoma

__Spouse, children's names:__ Wife - Rachel

Daughters - Laura, Camille & Stella

__Occupation:__ Attorney

__Employer:__ Bradshaw, Steele, Cochrane & Berens

__Businesses owned, all or part:__ Partner at Bradshaw, Steele, Cochrane & Berens, L.C.

__Previous offices held or sought:__ This is my first time to run for office

__What makes you the most qualified candidate for this position?:__

Three things: Professional Experience, Hard Work Ethic, Personal Character. My law practice is diversified, similar to the caseload of the Circuit Judge. I've tried cases to juries, and understand Missouri Court Rules. I've worked hard my entire life, putting myself through college as a logger in Alaska. My hard work ethic will carry over to the bench. I have tremendous respect for people and property, which is a vital aspect of a good circuit judge.

__Overcrowding has become a concern for jails and prisons across the state. Would you support the use of drug courts or other rehabilitation programs to help address the issue?:__

Yes. I believe drug courts can be a cost effective and productive alternative for some non-violent offenders. They must be looked at on a case by case basis but in many instances offenders who complete drug court are less likely to offend again than those sent to prison, and actual rehabilitation is key to our jails and prisons being overcrowded. Furthermore, offenders can remain productive citizens taking care of their families while completing the program.

__What are your thoughts on technology in the courtroom?:__

Technology absolutely has its place and I applaud our county for previous efforts to reduce costs and increase efficiency. There are tremendous challenges with the volume of cases that come through our courts, and if elected I will seek input from county officials on improvements to make the courts even more efficient for staff and law enforcement. In addition to court personnel benefits, courtroom technology can also help make a case clear to the jury.

__Where do you believe the most improvements, if any, should be made to the Division 1 court?:__

Like anything, there are improvements that can be made. One specific example -- an extra "law day" would free up jail space and save real tax dollars, especially in Bollinger and Perry Counties. Utilizing technology in obtaining search warrants would be another example. There is also a real opportunity to connect the traditional conservative values that have been long established in Division I with the next generation. I think I'm ideally positioned to do that.