Whitman County Judge weighs in

I was a busy trial lawyer in Whitman County for 31 years and served as Superior Court Judge in Whitman County for over 12 years, retiring in 2001. While serving as Judge, I tried cases in 13 Washington Counties, large and small. My most frequent trips were to Adams County because of the short distance between the court houses and the necessity of Judge Richard Miller excusing himself in cases which involved his brother Brian.

Judge Richard Miller is retiring. The candidates to replace him are Brian Miller and Randy Flyckt. It appears from the records that Mr. Flyckt has, as prosecuting attorney for the County, tried only one case since 2003. He handles juvenile cases and collections of funds owed the county. The deputy prosecutors apparently handle the trial work. This alarms me.

In law school, one learns the law. The practice of law is learned by trying cases. There is no other way…

Brian Miller is an excellent trial lawyer and would serve Adams County well as Superior Court Judge. I am well acquainted with his abilities. I was assigned to cover most of those cases from which Judge Richard Miller withdrew. He was excellent in all phases of the litigation. When, following my retirement, I needed the services of a lawyer on a business matter in the Basin, Brian Miller was my immediate first choice.

When trial lawyers are faced with an inexperienced Judge, they may disqualify that Judge without giving a reason. Such frequent disqualifications do happen and they can create administrative problems.

I strongly urge you to vote for Brian Miller for Superior Court Judge. His experience far overshadows that of his opponent.

Wallis W. Friel, Retired Superior Court Judge Pullman