Commentary: Socha Outlines Ellington/Vernon Probate Judge Race

ELLINGTON/VERNON, CT — The following is commentary submitted by Kerry Socha, the Republican candidate for probate judge for Ellington and Vernon.

I have been practicing law for 20 years as of this November. Through the years I have handled

thousands of cases with all types of clients. Most clients hire me because they know that I will
fight for them, even if it means going to trial. I have tried more than 75 jury trials in Connecticut
and each one of them feels like you are going into battle, and for your clients you are. I
understand what it is like, not only for the attorney, but for the client. This real-life experience,
which you cannot get outside the courtroom, is why I feel I am most qualified to serve as Probate
Judge for Ellington-Vernon. It is not just law being applied to facts that makes one a good
judge. It is about understanding the people who will appear before you. While it is not as
common as one would think, I have seen judges who can bring parties together and come to
resolutions.

For the attorneys, for the clients, and for the sake of the taxpayers, settling a case is
better than the alternative. Serving as the Probate Judge I will be able to facilitate those kinds of
resolutions for people who need to come to court. I understand that while a judge needs to be
impartial, and make difficult decisions, one can do that with respect and compassion.

Prior to going to law school, I worked 8 years in a group home with people who have mental
disabilities. There I served as a direct care worker taking care of not only the basic needs of the
clients, but also their social and educational needs. Through this experience I came to
understand the families and the client’s needs and challenges. It was one of the most rewarding
jobs, but also one of the most challenging. Working in that capacity gave me an invaluable
understanding of what people and families in our community may be going through.

What is important for people to know about me is that I am committed to the communities of
Ellington-Vernon, where I live and work. I currently serve on the Ellington Board of Education,
and I am the Chair of the Operations Committee. I volunteer at Windermere Elementary School,
and co-chair both the Holiday Fair and the Talent Show. I am also involved on a town wide
committee involving a school facilities study. I volunteer my time, my resources, and my heart
to the community.

Being the Probate Judge would allow me to do what I love, serve the people
of Ellington-Vernon.

I am also a wife and a mom to two very amazing girls, Remy age 10 and Carly age 8. I work
hard to make them proud and volunteer my time to show them by example of how important it is
to give back to your community. I want all of our children to see that it is important to be apart
of a community in any way you are able to and at any level. I went to law school not just to
study law but to make a positive difference for others.

As Probate Judge I believe I can bring experience, compassion and a dedication to those that live in Vernon and Ellington.

Patch Grapic: Kristin Borden