Jennifer E. Fields announced her candidacy today for the position of District Judge in Berrien County. District Judge Arthur J. Cotter has indicated that he will be retiring when his term expires at the end of this year.
Fields stated, “Judge Cotter has served with honor and distinction, and I will continue the pursuit of fairness and justice that has been the hallmark of his outstanding career.”
“I believe the citizens of Berrien County expect and deserve a judge who is committed to fairness, who is experienced in the courtroom, and who will utilize good judgment and common sense when considering the discretionary decisions a judge makes each day. I am seeking the position of District Judge because I believe my record and character reflect those qualities. Fairness is the cornerstone of our justice system. Treating individuals with compassion, dignity, respect, and fairness is fundamental to all litigants, victims, witnesses, defendants, jurors, and everyone who is involved in the justice system.”
“A District Judge presides over trials. Having appeared in court nearly daily since 2016 as a member of the Berrien County Public Defender’s Office, I have the substantial trial experience necessary to serve as a District Judge.”
“With deep family roots in the educational, agricultural, and legal communities, I am a 37 year old lifelong resident of Berrien County having lived and worked in both Niles and St. Joseph.”
“I received my undergraduate degree from Western Michigan University and my law degree from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School. I am grateful for the support and encouragement that I have received to run for District Judge from attorneys, members of law enforcement, as well as strong support from a broad base of citizens throughout Berrien County.”
The primary election for the nonpartisan judgeship will be August 4, 2026, and the general election is November 3, 2026.
“I am a past president of the Berrien County Bar Association and I welcome the forthcoming campaign as an opportunity for the public to review my credentials and experience. I believe I possess the essential qualities of fairness, experience, and common sense and I would be honored to have the privilege of serving the citizens of Berrien County as a District Judge.”