WCDP Election Central – Candidate Information

Christine Marie Walczyk
NC Court of Appeals Judge Seat 03

Candidate Statement:

Having served as a trial judge for more than 19 years, I have the skill, experience, and moral courage to safeguard the rights and liberties of all North Carolinians. I am the only primary candidate with judicial experience and the only one who has practiced law for more than five years. Before I was a judge, I owned my own law firm with Senator Lisa Grafstein. We represented the "little guy" and served as voices for the marginalized for over a decade. I am focused on restoring trust and confidence in our judicial system and safeguarding the liberties enshrined in our Constitution, including free speech, freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures, access to public education, and the right to vote. In these challenging times, we need skilled, experienced judges who remain faithful to their oath and the ethical standards of our profession. I am committed to strengthening an independent judiciary that fulfills its essential role of keeping the other branches within constitutional bounds. As the only woman running for the court in 2026, I hope to give Democratic women a seat at the table.

Direct Quote:

"You do not have to choose between an experienced judge who can do the job well, and someone who will fight for your rights. My candidacy offers you both. If you want someone who will steadfastly protect your individual liberties, and who has the ability to beat the Republican judge in the fall, I am your choice."

Issues:

Safeguarding Individual Liberties

The Court will face decisions of profound importance in the years ahead. We must elect experienced and skilled judges who have the moral courage to safeguard our individual liberties and who remain faithful to their oath of office and the ethical standards that govern our profession. I seek to bring honesty, transparency, humility, and strength to the Court.

Strengthening the Courts

The judiciary is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the rule of law is the foundation of a safe, fair, and peaceful society. We must maintain a strong and independent judiciary capable of ensuring that the other branches of government remain within constitutional bounds. Attacks on our state court system are unprecedented. Now more than ever, we must stand up for and defend this vital institution.

Equal Access to Justice

Navigating the court system is significantly easier for those who can afford counsel. Appeals to the Court of Appeals are governed by highly specific and unforgiving procedural rules, yet most North Carolinians cannot afford an attorney. Throughout my career, I have worked to level the playing field for self-represented persons by developing and using virtual courtrooms, creating informational materials, training pro bono attorneys, and helping to establish the Wake County Legal Support Center. If elected, I am committed to continuing these efforts to ensure access to justice for all.

Safeguarding Individual Liberties

The Court will face decisions of profound importance in the years ahead. We must elect experienced and skilled judges who have the moral courage to safeguard our individual liberties and who remain faithful to their oath of office and the ethical standards that govern our profession. I seek to bring honesty, transparency, humility, and strength to the Court.

Strengthening the Courts

The judiciary is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the rule of law is the foundation of a safe, fair, and peaceful society. We must maintain a strong and independent judiciary capable of ensuring that the other branches of government remain within constitutional bounds. Attacks on our state court system are unprecedented. Now more than ever, we must stand up for and defend this vital institution.

Equal Access to Justice

Navigating the court system is significantly easier for those who can afford counsel. Appeals to the Court of Appeals are governed by highly specific and unforgiving procedural rules, yet most North Carolinians cannot afford an attorney. Throughout my career, I have worked to level the playing field for self-represented persons by developing and using virtual courtrooms, creating informational materials, training pro bono attorneys, and helping to establish the Wake County Legal Support Center. If elected, I am committed to continuing these efforts to ensure access to justice for all.

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