Statement of Interest

Michael “Mac” Clebone for District Court Judge

Promoting access to justice; serving human interests

Durham deserves a District Court Judge that will promote access to justice and serve human interests. My experience as an Assistant Public Defender, North Carolina Judicial Fellow, Legal Aid Intern, and Middle School Teacher has provided me with the opportunity to listen to a wide range of voices. In my current role, as an Assistant Public Defender, I incorporate all perspectives to achieve more just outcomes. I pay special attention to those with the least resources and the most contact with the court system. Promoting access to justice and serving human interests are at the forefront of my legal practice. As District Court Judge, I will use this focus to effectuate more just outcomes on behalf of all parties to a case.

As an Assistant Public Defender, I have handled cases from class 3 misdemeanors through B1 felonies. Whether a case carries a potential sentence of ten years or ten days, it is the most important case to the individual facing those charges—and they deserve the zealous representation to match. Similarly, each individual coming before a judge deserves kindness, compassion, and careful consideration of their case.

In my current role as an Assistant Public Defender, I listen, not only to the accused, but also to families and crime victims. I incorporate all these perspectives into an effective defense that considers each party’s relationship to each possible judgment. As a District Court Judge I will turn my attention to serving all individuals who are parties in a case with the perspective that this is not just another day at work for them, but rather a potentially life altering moment.

Just as there are many persons to consider in making a judgment, there are many ways to make that judgement judicious. I have the unique experience of serving as a law clerk for our trial court judges. As an inaugural member of the North Carolina Judicial Fellowship, I assisted Superior and District Court judges with research, writing, and court procedure. I participated in court proceedings from Boone to Wilmington. By assisting a variety of trial court judges, I learned first-hand the different ways to conduct a proceeding or draft an order.

While I have traveled the state, Durham, North Carolina is my chosen home. I first came to Durham to attend Duke University School of Law. I continue to return to Durham because of its values, commitment to progress, and inclusivity. Just like Durham, I strive to serve those in need and never stop learning. Since law school, I have had the privilege of learning from the University of North Carolina School of Government, my esteemed colleagues, my clients, opposing counsel, law enforcement, clerks of court, and my many mentors from the bench.

As your next Durham County District Court Judge, I will continue to learn, and serve all members of the Durham Community. I humbly request the support of the Durham County Bar in my bid to become your next District Court Judge.