Who is Roy H. Wiggins, a Democratic candidate for Superior Court District 26D?

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 60

Campaign website: JudgeRoyWiggins.com

Occupation: District Court Judge

Education: Campbell University School of Law, Juris Doctor (cum laude) 1990, East Carolina University, B.S. Business Administration, 1984

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought): District Court Judge

Please list your highlights of civic involvement:

Aldersgate Continuing Care Retirement Community (former member, Vice-Chair and Chair of the Board of Directors; Former Chair of the Board of Directors at Dahlia Grove non- profit; former member of Sanctuary Counseling; Member of St. Stephen UMC where I have served as a Sunday School teacher (youth and adults), Youth Counselor, Confirmation mentor, coordinator for Room In the Inn, and as a member of the Church Council

Name two personal traits that best qualify you to be a Mecklenburg County judge?

1. Treat all participants in court with respect, dignity and fairness 2. Listen carefully to all persons without pre-judging the individuals and issues

Are the courts racially fair? If so, explain why. If not, list the specific steps you’d take to change that.

I believe that we strive to be fair to all persons regardless of their race, gender orientation, religious beliefs or any other factors. There are certainly things that we can continue to work on and recognize implicit biases that are inherent in both us as individuals and the system in general. I have participated in educational seminars and will continue to seek opportunities to grow my knowledge and understanding of issues regarding racial and other forms of potential bias.

Why should the public, the government or the accused trust that you’ll be a competent judge?

As a District Court Judge, I have strived my best to treat all persons coming to court with dignity, respect and fairness. I routinely participate in educational seminars to maintain and increase my knowledge of the ever changing legal landscape. There is always room for improvement, but I do believe that I have served this community with integrity, honesty and fairness. It is my intention to continue to do so as a Superior Court Judge.

Is there an area where you disagree with your party? Why?

As a sitting District Court Judge and as a candidate for Superior Court Judge, it is improper for me to comment on party politics and official positions of my party or any political party. It is my duty to hear all cases and issues without considering party affiliation or party platforms. I will continue to follow the North Carolina Rules of Judicial Conduct regarding these issues.

What separates you from your primary opponent(s)?

I have been a member of the Mecklenburg County and North Carolina bars since 1990. I have over 32 years of experience in our court system. I have served as an assistant district attorney, as a defense attorney, as a plaintiff’s attorney, and as a general practitioner. I am now serving as a District Court Judge. I believe in my community involvement, life experiences, legal and judicial backgrounds make me the most qualified candidate for Superior Court Judge.

What one professional or political accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am most proud of my long legal career and, especially, the support of my legal peers that led to my appointment as a District Court Judge by Governor Roy Cooper

This story was originally published April 22, 2022 at 3:00 PM.