Candidate: Damaris L. Garcia

Court: Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas

Party: Democrat

Philadelphia Bar Association Rating: Recommended

Ballot Position: 13

The following has been edited lightly for length and style.

The Legal Intelligencer: Tell us about your background, where you went to law school, what firms you have practiced at, and areas of law you focus on.

Damaris Garcia: I was born and raised in Philadelphia. I lived in the Norris Square neighborhood. I went to both college and law school at Duquesne University and came right back to start my legal career in Philadelphia. I have been a civil trial attorney for nearly 20 years. I have worked at large law firms and in house for Fortune 500 companies. I also represented plaintiffs in personal injury matters. My practice currently consists of representing homeowners and small businesses and general liability matters.

The Legal: What is one major thing about your career experience that most qualifies you for this position, and why?

Garcia: One major thing about my career experience that most qualifies me to be a Judge is the amount of experience I have in jury trials. I have tried numerous civil jury trials to verdict. I have verdicts for both defendants and plaintiffs. My knowledge and experience with not only pre-trial issues but also the rules and mechanics of a jury trial itself separates me from other candidates and will help my courtroom run smoothly and fairly.

The Legal: What will be your approach to moving matters efficiently through the case management system?

Garcia: My approach to moving matters efficiently through the case management system will be to follow and adhere to the original case management deadlines. If the matter is on a case management timetable that is too long or too short I will make the appropriate adjustments on a case-by-case basis. Consistent enforcement of case management deadlines is key to the efficient administration of justice.

The Legal: What would you say to voters regarding your plans to ensure the equal administration of justice for all people?

Garcia: The main reason Philadelphia voters should pick me as judge for the court of common pleas is because when my experience is combined with my strong work ethic and my sense of fairness, voters will end up with reliable and equitable justice.

The Legal: Where can voters go for more information about you?

Garcia: www.Garcia4Judge.com