Dear Editor,

For the past seven years, I have worked as a criminal defense attorney in Carbon County. During that time, I worked closely with the Clerk of Court’s Office, witnessing the importance of that office to the Carbon County Criminal Justice System. As the filing office for all criminal cases, it notifies parties of court dates, it collects bail, court costs, and restitution, and it handles various court orders including orders that can either incarcerate or release my clients. Because of the importance of its work, any error it commits can have a devastating impact on members of our community such as a victim not receiving restitution, a defendant’s wrongful incarceration, or a defendant’s premature release from incarceration.

During my time, I worked with Sydney Wernett. I worked with her in several positions she has held including as a deputy in the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office. She has demonstrated to me that she has the qualities and vision to be the next Clerk of Court. She is hardworking, reliable, and well-organized. From criminal defendants to judges, I watched her treat all who interacted with her with respect. Additionally, she has offered ideas that will improve the Clerk of Court’s Office and in turn the criminal justice system in Carbon County. I trust her to run an office that is vital to administering a criminal justice system that fairly serves this community. I respectfully ask that you vote for Sydney Wernett as the next Clerk of Court.

Sincerely,

Matthew Mottola, Esquire

Palmerton