Dale Co. probate judge candidates cite experience

OZARK—Each of the three Dale County probate judge candidates say they have past experience that qualifies them to successfully operate the office. The difference in the experiences is what candidates hope will guarantee them votes on March 13.

The candidates -- Dale County Coroner Woody Hilboldt, District 4 Commissioner Kurt McDaniel and chief probate clerk Sharon Ard Michalic -- participated Monday in a forum before the Dale County Republican Committee to state their qualifications.

The county probate judge will be determined next month unless there is a runoff, as there are no Democratic candidates who qualified for the general election in November.

Current Probate Judge Eunice Hagler, who has served since 1999, can no longer run in her capacity because Alabama law restricts judges from seeking their posts past age 70.

The duties of the state probate office include presiding over matters that concern estates, guardianships, involuntary commitments in relation to mental health, adoption, deeds and records.

Hilboldt, who has served as coroner since 2006 and holds a business administration degree from Troy State University, said his long work history in community-based business and his experience as a father and husband will be invaluable resources in performing the administrative duties of the office.

In addition to his duties as coroner, Hilboldt said he serves as a licensed funeral director and has served in multiple capacities in his church and community.

“I believe mature judgment, a strong work ethic and real-life experiences are essential qualities a probate judge must possess. I have a compassionate spirit that will serve the county well,” he said.

“I will be a dedicated steward for the people of Dale County and will seek to protect the rights and privileges of each and every citizen.”

McDaniel, who said he was the youngest elected county official in Alabama history when elected in 2004, said his experience is based in service organizations and administrative roles he’s held in the last several years.

He said he is the 49th person in Alabama to graduate from the Alabama Local Government Training Institute and the Center for Governmental Services at Auburn University after undergoing more than 180 hours of government training and education.

“I’ve been very active in not only serving but giving back through various charities that represent several counties, so I’ve established a working relationship with people throughout an eight-county region. It’s in my heart to serve,” he said.

“Everyday is a learning experience.”

Michalic said she has served 26 years in the Dale County Courthouse, first in the tax assessor’s office before transferring to the probate office in 1994.

She said she took an unpaid leave of absence from her duties as Hagler’s chief probate clerk in order to seek the judgeship. Her duties as chief clerk included assisting with marriage ceremonies, supervising and assisting staff and issuing state licenses, she said.

“By electing me, citizens can be confident they will have a probate judge with the knowledge and ability that only comes with years of hands-on experience,” she said.

“My duties have included assisting in judicial proceedings and when necessary I have presided over uncontested court cases in a judge’s absence. I’ve gone to numerous educational classes through the Alabama Law Institute as well as annual probate judge conferences, which are all designed specifically for the probate judge and the chief clerk.”