Kate is running for the position of Sixth Circuit Judge for Pinellas and Pasco Counties, Group 9. With over eight years of experience as an Assistant State Attorney, she has demonstrated a strong work ethic, passion for justice, and dedication to her community.
She has tried 74 jury and bench trials, showcasing her commitment to the legal process. Kate aims to bring this same level of dedication to the bench, ensuring that justice is served for all, making her a strong candidate for this judicial role.
Kate’s commitment to integrity is evident in both her professional and personal life. She upholds moral and ethical principles, even in challenging court cases.
As a judicial candidate, she plans to maintain this integrity, working impartially and fairly to ensure justice. If elected, she will continue to advocate for justice and fairness, guided by the principles of integrity and ethics.
Known for her fairness and respect, Kate has built a reputation for treating everyone with dignity. Her approach as an Assistant State Attorney has been firm but fair, guided by the Constitution and the laws of Florida.
Raised in a small town in East Tennessee by her parents, Paula and Mick, Kate learned the value of hard work and doing things the right way for the betterment of others. Her grandfather, a self-made business owner during the Great Depression, further instilled these principles.
After studying business in college, Kate realized her passion for helping people through law. She interned with a judge before law school, witnessing the community impact of the legal profession.
She began her law studies in Florida in 2012 and graduated from the Florida Coastal School of Law. Kate then joined the Sixth Circuit State Attorney’s Office in Clearwater as an Assistant State Attorney, where she has been dedicated to maintaining the integrity and fairness of the justice system.
Currently, Kate is assigned to the Special Victims Unit, handling cases such as child sexual exploitation, aggravated child abuse, homicides involving children, and human trafficking. Over her eight years as a Pinellas County Assistant State Attorney, she has also served in the Traffic Homicide Unit, dealing with DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide, and other serious cases.
Kate has tried over 65 jury and bench trials and handles the civil commitment of Sexually Violent Predators under the Jimmy Ryce Act.
Kate is married to her college sweetheart, Tyler, an engineer working on projects at Tampa International Airport. They have a three-year-old son, Deacon.
The family enjoys spending weekends at parks, going on neighborhood walks, and attending church. Kate and Tyler aim to instill the same values in Deacon that have been passed down through generations in her family.
Despite the demands of her job at the Criminal Justice Complex, Kate is supported by her family, allowing her to advocate effectively for the victims she represents. She approaches each day with compassion and humility, aware of the struggles many face.
Kate’s experience, persistence, and perspective have prepared her to serve as the next Pasco-Pinellas Circuit Court Judge. She remains dedicated to her community and seeks the support of voters in her campaign.