Fink Joins Field of Judicial Candidates

Local attorney Jim Fink has officially entered the race for the judgeship on the 22nd circuit court of Washtenaw County, a seat currently held by Melinda Morris, who is retiring. A press release issued on Tuesday, Jan. 17 stated that Fink decided to run because he is “exceptionally qualified,” and because his father, the late Robert V. Fink, and his brother, Karl V. Fink, were both judges in Washtenaw County. [.pdf of press release]

Fink is an Ypsilanti resident who practices law in Ann Arbor at Fink & Valvo PLLC. He has a degree from the Detroit College of Law and served for 20 years in the Washtenaw County sheriff’s office, first as a deputy and ultimately as a police services commander. According to his press release, Fink has served on the Dawn Farm board, the Michigan Domestic Violence Prevention and Treatment board, and the Hope Clinic “One Hope” capital campaign committee, and has provided free legal services to local nonprofits. [.pdf of Fink's resume]

Janis Bobrin, Washtenaw County’s water resources commissioner, and Rich Sheridan, president of Ann Arbor-based Menlo Innovations, are serving as honorary co-chairs for Fink’s campaign.

Fink was not among the candidates for the 22nd circuit court judgeship who attended the Saturday, Jan. 14 meeting of the Ann Arbor City Democratic Party. Candidates who spoke during that meeting included Carol Kuhnke, Erane Washington and Doug McClure.

The circuit court is a trial court of general jurisdiction, including criminal cases like felonies and certain serious misdemeanors, as well as civil cases involving amounts greater than $25,000. Candidates have until May 1 to file their nominating petitions.