To the Editor:

I write as a former Family Court attorney in St. Lawrence County, well familiar with both candidates for Family Court Judge, and concerned that the voters recognize the important choice facing us this November. The challenges of an oppressive caseload and the balancing of parental rights and the best interests of children confront every Family Court Judge; but this year there are also the troubling numbers of children in foster care and charges about the Department of Social Services' administration of its foster care program in the mix.

Under these circumstances, it's vital that we have a skilled and neutral judge ruling on the docket of custody, neglect, delinquency and parental rights cases flooding the court each year.

Thankfully, Alex Lesyk's on-the-job training as Principal Court Attorney for Franklin County Family Court makes him especially well qualified to meet those needs. While his opponent has a history of DSS employment in the county, and lacks experience in the important executive functions of the judiciary -- and even recent experience in Family Court -- Alex Lesyk has been immersed in Family Court law for the past several years. He offers solid plans to ensure the timely handling of a crushing caseload, and to bring added resources to the functioning of the court. By contrast, his opponent, Andrew Moses, has actually signaled his intention to slow down the review of cases -- a prescription for disaster for the children and parents of St. Lawrence County!

You may see lots of signs touting Mr. Moses' candidacy -- a legacy of the efforts he's devoted to party politics in recent years. During those same years, Alex Lesyk has been building on his legal experience and preparing for the position of Family Court Judge. He's the one candidate able to hit the ground running, and deliver sound justice for the children and families of our county. Please join me in voting for Alex Lesyk on November 2nd.

Nan Clingman
Canton