Two candidates for Dukes County Clerk of Courts

Posted November 2, 2006

Long-time clerk of courts Joseph Sollitto Jr. of Chilmark faces a challenge from attorney Daniel James Larkosh of West Tisbury. The Times asked each of the candidates to provide a 150-word statement on why Islanders should vote for him.

Joseph Sollitto Jr., candidate for reelection.

Islanders should vote to re-elect me as their Clerk of the Courts because I have the experience, integrity, and fairness that comes with 30 years of service as your clerk.

My entire working life has been devoted to public service, as a Marine, police officer, selectman in Oak Bluffs, and now as your clerk. Your court is in excellent condition. We are current in all civil and criminal cases. Ninety percent of all cases that come before the court are settled before they go to trial.

The court offers alternative resolution dispute and retired judges who will evaluate and mediate cases. We are fortunate to have Martha's Vineyard Mediation Inc. that provides affordable local mediation.

My office is considered one of the most efficient in the state. Fifty-nine (59) lawyers; 97 percent of the attorneys who practice on the Island have endorsed my re-election and I ask for your vote on November 7th so I may continue to serve you as your Clerk of the Courts.

Daniel James Larkosh

I am an Islander with 15 years of hands-on experience as a trial lawyer and mediator. Our Court system can be improved.

My plan is to evaluate and manage disputes early in the process, to mediate cases and streamline issues for the judge. I will personally provide these services designed to save time, aggravation, and legal fees.

My opponent has served County government, and for that he should be celebrated. However, I also feel very strongly in the reforms I wish to initiate; and that my plan will benefit all Islanders, even if that goes against the lawyers who practice before my opponent and who are contributing to his campaign.

The Court shouldn't be just for the lawyers; it should focus on the needs of our community at large. Please vote for me, Daniel Larkosh for Clerk of Courts, on November 7. Together we can improve our Court system.