Frances Burge is newest Douglas County Circuit Court Judge
By Dan BainROSEBURG, Ore. - Judge Frances Burge was sworn in Thursday afternoon as Douglas County's fifth Circuit Court Judge. The former prosecutor from the Douglas County District Attorney's Office will begin hearing cases Monday morning, as she takes over for retired Judge William Lasswell. Burge was given the oath of office by retired Judge Robert Millikan in front of a packed courtroom full of family, friends and co-workers. "I'm just overwhelmed at all the support everyone is giving me," said Burge. "It's just so wonderful to see all the people of the community that came out to bid me well, I'm just very overwhelmed and very honored." Burge was appointed by Gov. Ted Kulongoski to fill the vacancy created when Judge Lasswell retired earlier this year. The appointment runs until the next election which is in May of next year, and Burge will have to run for election at that time. "I want to help people solve their conflicts and that's what the court does," she said. "I also want to hold people accountable and I want to help inspire change in people's lives and make our community a better place to live." Burge, 48, who is a graduate of Willamette University Law School, becomes the second female judge ever in Douglas County. She is married to Undersheriff Jim Burge. |
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February 8, 2012
- Roseburg, Oregon
