Avon’s Former Court Clerk Jan Cole Runs for Town Justice

AVON – Avon resident and retired court clerk Jan Cole is running for Town Justice.

Cole was court clerk for 26 years before retiring and now serves as clerk for several departments within the justice system.

“I can switch hats and work as clerk if need be,” said Cole. “That’s not something anyone walking into this job will know.”

Cole clerks as need be for the Livingston County Public Defender’s Office, Livingston County District Attorney’s Office and Livingston County Probation Department.

Cole says that she has gleaned some tidbits of wisdom from judges she has worked with over her years as clerk.

“One of my favorite judges I ever worked for was Judge Jim Orman, who said that to some people a $50 fine is nothing and to others it’s a real hardship and you’re taking food off their table,” said Cole. “Judge Orman took everything in a case by case basis and I want to keep an open mind about that.”

Cole is seeking the support of all Town voters, regardless of party lines.

“The judge job really should be apolitical,” said Cole. “I am a registered Democrat but I’m seeking the support of any and all voters.”

She lives with her husband in Avon.

“I have three adult kids,” said Cole. “They’re a physician’s assistant, an attorney and a police officer. So interest in the judicial process runs in the family. As I look forward to retirement, this is a way to keep my brain engaged in the system I’ve worked in for so long.”

The election is Nov. 7.