Judicial candidate: Bridgid Dowdal

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Bridgid Dowdal

Age: 45

Hometown: Mahtomedi

Education: University of Minnesota Law School; University of Aberdeen, Scotland (master’s degree); Boston University (bachelor’s degree).

1. What makes you the best candidate to be a judge?

The election of a judge is unique. Unlike politicians who seek to be elected based upon specific issues, judges are elected based on legal expertise, temperament and life experience. My 16 years of legal experience as a federal prosecutor with the U.S. attorney’s office, as a trial attorney with the Department of Justice, as a private practitioner and partner in a small family firm, and now as assistant dean at William Mitchell College of Law.

2. How would you as a judge suggest the court system respond to limited or reduced state funding?

We need to think creatively about how we can most effectively allow citizens access to the courts in a meaningful manner. In the federal system, we moved to an electronic court filing system that has increased efficiency. There are areas where technology could reduce some of the pressures on the system while increasing efficiency and access. I support initiatives such as the Veteran’s Court in Hennepin County and collaboration by government agencies. Creative thinking, solid leadership and a willingness to explore new options are critical to addressing our limited finances and growing needs within the judiciary.

3. Do you believe judicial candidates should be allowed to discuss political views and be involved in non-judicial politics?

It is critical that a judge remain fair and independent in order for our judiciary to maintain nonpartisanship and independence. Injecting politics into a judicial race jeopardizes its actual and perceived impartiality and independence. To ensure that there will not be bias or the appearance of bias in my courtroom if I am elected, I have established higher standards for my campaign than what is required by law. I am not seeking or accepting political party endorsement, and I am not taking positions in the campaign on matters of controversy that may come before me as a judge.