Joe Rossi For Judge - Kent County Circuit Court

I am running because I enjoy being in the courtroom and problem solving alongside my fellow attorneys. My practice has allowed me to litigate different types of cases in multiple forums, including administrative, state and federal courtrooms. My broad perspective allows me to identify what I perceive are best practices for providing a just, civil and efficient forum. I intend to employ technology whenever I can to lower the cost of litigation and increase transparency.

Finally, I think my 22 year Marine Corps career provided me with tremendous life experience beyond my legal practice. I prepared and led 42 Marines (and a sailor) in Operation Desert Storm 25 years ago. As a Reservist, I was activated twice and assigned family support duties here in West Michigan while our Grand Rapids Marines deployed to Fallujah, Iraq. As a casualty notification officer, I saw firsthand the unfathomable sadness of parents who lost a son. I will not forget the day the unit returned to joyful family and friends, marching into the Delta Plex with several injured Maries at the rear of the formation, limping or walking on crutches, elated to be re-united with their brothers. I have been with people on their best and worst days, similar to the rush of emotion that can fill a courtroom at key moments. The Marines taught me to balance compassion with the necessary (and often comforting) formalities and protocols required in these situations. I will strive to implement the same balance in the courtroom.