Michael Barket, Michael Barket P.C., Miami.

The Daily Business Review's coverage of South Florida candidates in the August primary election features Q&As with candidates in judicial races across South Florida. This installment focuses on the race for Miami-Dade County Court judge, Group 40.

Candidate Michael Barket, a Miami litigator, participated in the Q&A. His opponent — Doral lawyer Elena Ortega-Tauler — declined to participate. Here's what Barket has to say about what qualifies him for the judgeship. Responses have been edited for style and content.

Why do you want to be a Circuit Court judge?

Barket: I want to be a county judge because the county court is known as the “people's court,” and that is who I have represented for the past 20 years. My clients are individuals who are unfamiliar with the judicial and court system. I practice in the area of residential and commercial landlord-tenant, family law, probate and guardianships. My clients rely on me to give them the best representation and guide them through the legal process. Helping someone who has just lost a loved one navigate through the probate process is humbling. Guiding and counseling clients who are going through a divorce and showing them that there is light at the end of the tunnel is rewarding. I believe I have the right temperament and experience to sit on the county bench.

What about your experience qualifies you for the position?

Barket: I practice both in the circuit and county court.  I have experience in landlord-tenant, small claims and traffic cases.

What's your biggest achievement so far?

Barket: My biggest achievement on a personal level are my two daughters. They are both college graduates and blazing their own paths and are productive citizens. On the professional side, my biggest achievement is the trust clients put in me to represent them. I learn something new with each and every case. I am very fortunate to be part of this legal community.

What would a successful term look like for you?

Barket: I look forward to six years in public office as a county judge. If elected, I would like to sit both in criminal court and on the civil bench. I believe these experiences will make me a well-rounded judge.

What is the most important issue facing the Broward circuit at the moment?

Barket: One of the most important issues facing our county courts is access to hearings. If elected, I will work efficiently and diligently to ensure that lawyers and litigants obtain hearing dates and have their motions heard within a reasonable time, because “justice delayed is justice denied.”