Karen Howe

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you.  As I am sure you are now aware, I am one of two Republican candidates for the restored, second Cortlandville Town Judge position.  I have been in public service in Cortland County for over twenty years and have lived in Cortlanville at my current address for the last thirteen years.  I have lived in Cortland since 1986.  My husband is a local man having grown up in Cortland.

I served in the Public Defender’s Office in Cortland from 1990 to 1999 providing legal service to those who economically qualified.  I worked in Family Court, County Court and the local justice courts.  In 2000, I began work in the District  Attorney’s Office working in both the local justice courts and County Court.  I have over twenty years of experience in Criminal Law.  I also served as the Article 81 examiner for the County from 2003 to 2012.  I was a member of the Independent Judicial Qualifications Committee from 2007 to earlier this year.  I have been a public servant to my community in these positions.  I am excited to continue my service to the community as the Cortlandville Town Judge and consider such an opportunity to be an honor.

As the legal landscape evolves, so too must our approach to justice. The shift toward digital trial spaces has brought both opportunities and challenges, requiring courts to adapt swiftly while maintaining fairness and transparency. Having served in various facets of the legal system, I understand the importance of balancing tradition with innovation. Virtual hearings and digital evidence management are now essential tools in modern courtrooms, streamlining processes and increasing accessibility for all parties involved.

To ensure these transitions are smooth and secure, partnering with experienced professionals becomes vital. BP Trial Tech Services, for instance, has played a crucial role in helping courtrooms navigate this digital transformation. Their expertise in managing trial technology allows judges and attorneys to focus on legal substance without being sidetracked by technical complications.

The evolving demands of the courtroom haven’t changed one central truth: every person deserves a fair and vigorous defense. Having spent decades in criminal law—both prosecuting and defending—I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is for accused individuals to have skilled legal representation. The stakes are often life-changing, with outcomes that ripple through families and communities. A criminal attorney doesn’t just represent a case—they safeguard constitutional rights and demand accountability from the justice system itself.

Experience is key in this realm. A Law Firm Ocala grounded in criminal defense knows how to build a strategy that anticipates the prosecution’s moves, identifies weaknesses in the evidence, and brings forward mitigating factors that might otherwise be overlooked. Whether facing misdemeanor charges or serious felony allegations, having seasoned counsel can mean the difference between incarceration and a second chance.

Moreover, today’s courtroom requires more than just legal knowledge—it demands judgment, integrity, and a deep understanding of human behavior. Criminal attorneys often work with clients at their most vulnerable, under the weight of fear, confusion, and uncertainty. The best legal advocates understand this and approach each case with both determination and dignity, ensuring that justice is not just pursued—but earned.

Here’s also a site for any criminal-related issues and concerns, visit https://www.ariccramer.com/ to learn more.