BENTONVILLE — Rogers attorney Paul Bridges is a candidate for Rogers District Court judge.

Bridges is an attorney with the firm Norwood and Norwood.

Fairness, integrity and honesty are the primary cornerstones of the judiciary, and Bridges said he has the reputation and experience to ensure the legal system in Rogers is served properly.

The primary focus for his court operation will be effective leadership combined with fair and impartial treatment for citizens of Benton County, Bridges said.

“When I am elected, I intend to ensure these benchmarks continue to improve,” Bridges said. “Even though the prison reform law recently signed by Gov. Beebe will increase the caseload for local district courts, I know I can manage the Rogers court in an efficient, effective manner and continue to stay within the court’s budget.”

Bridges has been a substitute judge in Rogers District Court. He also has worked as a deputy prosecutor in the Benton County Prosecuor’s Office.

Bridges has worked as a professor at NorthWest Arkansas Community College in Bentonville, is a certified law enforcement instructor and an Air Force veteran, commanding combat units during Operation Desert Storm, according to his announcement.

Ben Roberds, a Bentonville attorney, believes Bridges will be a great judge able to handle overseeing a district court.

“He’s ready to be a judge,” Roberds said. “He's prosecuted as a deputy prosecutor for the county, defended at a top defense firm and is genuinely driven to be the best judge he can be.”

Doug Norwood also is a Bridges’ supporter.

Norwood said he first became impressed with Bridges when he worked as deputy prosecutor and Norwood decided to hire him. Bridges has worked for several years at Norwood’s firm.

“He’s just a level-headed guy,” Norwood said. “He’s seen and done everything in the legal business.”