Gregory Hayes - N.C. District Court Judge, District 36, Seat 5

Full name: Gregory R. Hayes

Age: 68

Education: Wake Forest University BA 1980. Wake Forest School of Law JD 1983

Current employer and job title: Retired Superior Court Judge 2024

How long have you lived in the district you want to serve?

I moved here in 1983 after I graduated from law school and was hired as an Assistant District Attorney in Burke, Caldwell and Catawba counties.

What are your top three priorities you want to address if elected?

A) Continue my service to the citizens of this district as the most experienced candidate running. I have almost 30 years of service as a Judge to the citizens of this district.

(B) Continue to treat every person who appears before me in court with dignity, respect, and listening to what they have to say about their case.

(C) Continue to make sure that we in the legal community in our district have judges of the highest caliber and the best experience.

What experience do you feel has best prepared you for handling complex or emotionally charged cases, particularly in violent or family-related matters?

As a Judge I have tried cases from First Degree Murder to traffic tickets. I handled every type of domestic violence case possible. I was certified as a trained Family Court Judge.

How do you make sure underrepresented and unrepresented parties feel heard while maintaining neutrality and courtroom efficiency?

I have always made sure that underrepresented and unrepresented parties feel heard in the courtroom. I have received years of training and experience to maintain neutrality and courtroom efficiency.

Why do you feel you are the best candidate for this position? What do you hope to contribute in the judgeship?

I have three core principles as a judge. (1) I follow and apply my Christian beliefs as a judge. (2) I respect and follow the U.S. Constitution as a judge. (3) I believe that convicted criminals deserve proper punishment. And I have the credentials and experience to do the job on Day 1.