Both of the candidates running in the November 8, 2022, general election for Michigan’s 2nd Court of Appeals— incumbent Sima Patel and Michael D. Warren — completed Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection survey. These survey responses allow voters to hear directly from candidates about what motivates them to run for office.
The Michigan Court of Appeals is the intermediate appellate court in Michigan. It is divided into four districts. The court was created by the Michigan Constitution of 1963, Article VI, Section 1, under which the State of Michigan has “one court of justice.”
Here are excerpts from candidates’ responses to the question: How would you describe your legal philosophy?
Patel:
“I am a rule of law judge. That means I look at the statutes and rules, common law precedent, and apply and interpret them to the unique facts of each case.”
Warren:
“Judges should not legislate from the bench, but apply a fair and faithful application of the law as made by the people or the legislature. […] As a proven rule of law judge, I will continue to protect the Constitution and the law.”
Click on candidates’ profile pages below to read their full responses to this and other questions.
We ask all federal, state, and local candidates with profiles on Ballotpedia to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. Ask the candidates in your area to fill out the survey.
Additional reading:
- Races with a 100% Candidate Connection completion rate, 2022
- Michigan intermediate appellate court of elections, 2022