Magistrate Massie’s Story

In 2003 Steve was troubled by an article titled “Raleigh Magistate Arrested”.  He thought about how as a child in school he was taught to respect elected government officials because of the office they hold, how he taught his children the same and how could the teachers and parents of Raleigh County teach their students to respect the government when we have issues like this in the county.  It concerned him so much that the next day Steve went to the court house and filed to run as a candidate for the office of Raleigh County Magistrate.  Admittedly not knowing the complete duties of a magistrate Steve obtained a copy of the administrative rules for West Virginia Magistrate Courts and began to study them.  In 2004 the good people of Raleigh County elected him.  Steve Massie continues to represent the interests of the citizenry in their magistrate court system.

HONOR: Magistrates must honor the position the people have placed them in and be an example to the citizenry.  Magistrate Massie first became a candidate for this office because of its tarnished honor and has worked since to redeem it. 

COURAGE: Magistrates must have the courage it takes to do the right thing, even when its not the easy thing.  It requires courage to be a magistrate and Massie has proven his courage. 

COMMITMENT: Being available when needed is an absolute necessity when handling emergent situations for any agency or citizen.  Magistrate Massie is a dedicated servant to the office you placed him in and will continue to be.   

EXPERIENCE:  Magistrates not only need magistrate court experience but life experience.  A magistrate has to be able to consider how a decision will affect every aspect both positively and negatively and still make the hard decision.  Massie has the experience we need.

Issues

NEPOTISM: Nepotism is the result of diminished ethics. 

LEGISLATION: The purpose of the bench is not to create legislation, but interpret and administer it.

CHILDREN: Children are the responsibility of their parents. 

PUNISHMENT: Punishment should be comparable to the crime and making criminals think before recommitting.

PARTISANSHIP: There is no place in public service for partisanship especially in the court system.

ADMINISTRATION: Court administration is very important in ensuring the citizenry obtains the greatest value for funds budgeted to the court.

DRUGS:  Addiction is the largest contributor to crime and must be eradicated.

FAIRNESS:  Conducting a fair court goes to the foundation of the process and is a main stay in Massie's court.  

ETHICS: This is the difference between public service and self service.