Hileman says he will be fair, but firm

Since 1977, it has been my pleasure to practice law in Whitefish. My wife, Susan Lacosta, and I have built our careers here; and our twin daughters, Hayley and Holly, have grown up in Whitefish and attended public schools.

I am now running for Whitefish Municipal Court Judge. My legal practice has included prosecution and criminal defense, commercial law, contracts, family law, personal injury, banking, and real estate matters. I’ve tried civil and criminal cases in state and federal courts and represented clients in appeals before the Montana Supreme Court and Ninth Circuit.

Our office acted as the city prosecutors for Whitefish for more than 25 years. I was always involved in what was going on and served as a backup whenever needed. Last year I was sworn in as Substitute Judge in Columbia Falls, and have also spent countless hours in the Whitefish Municipal Court and the courts in Kalispell. I believe the diversity of my legal knowledge and experience would help me to be a better Judge. I will bring enthusiasm and the perspective of an attorney who has practiced in Whitefish for my entire career.

This is a good time in my professional life to make a change. I have enjoyed working as judge and found it to be invigorating to do something a bit different. I want to give back to the community that has been so good to my family and me.

The position of Municipal Judge is non-partisan, meaning no party affiliation. I do not have a political agenda. My support is very broad-based — it includes the entire political spectrum. That’s the way it should be in a judicial election. I have an open mind and am even tempered. I will be fair, but firm, and follow the law.

I believe in the value of testimony, and that victims should be heard. But consequences are essential. The court has to do what it can to make things right. It is about justice.

In closing, Whitefish is my home and it would be an honor to serve as your judge. I can promise that I would roll up my sleeves and get to work. I pledge my full-time commitment to be the best judge possible. Quoting Abraham Lincoln, “Whatever you are, be a good one.” And that is what I intend to do as Whitefish Municipal Judge!

William Hileman, Jr. is a candidate for Whitefish Municipal Judge.