Heather Koontz
This August, the primary race for assistant judge will be a contested one in Washington County. Both positions are up at the end of the year, with only one current officeholder running for re-election.
The position of assistant judge, or side judge, is unique to the state of Vermont. The elected side judges typically sit next to the presiding judge during court proceedings and provide input on cases. Typically not attorneys themselves, side judges focus on factual matters, not necessarily the inner workings of the law.
In essence, assistant judges help bridge communities with the courts by providing an alternative point of view to the presiding judge during trials. Their opinions and experience can add valuable insight to a judge’s decision. Not to mention, the vote of an assistant judge has the same weight as that of the presiding judge, which means the collective vote of two side judges could overrule the judge.
In addition to courtroom proceedings, side judges also have administrative responsibilities. They appoint certain government officials, oversee the courthouse budget, and maintain buildings and grounds.
There are four candidates vying for the two side judge positions in Washington County. Below is an overview of each candidate, in alphabetical order by last name.
Caleb Curry (D-Montpelier)
A third-generation Vermonter, Curry’s current career includes overseeing facilities, building infrastructure, and providing day-to-day administration. Additionally, he works closely with local contractors and tradespeople to maintain facilities that are both safe and compliant.
Curry is endorsed by current Assistant Judge Hon. Leah Murphy Jones. In a recent community letter, Jones said Curry is “grounded in strong moral character and common sense” and is “committed to bringing responsible leadership to the office of assistant judge.”
Anne Dielensnyder (D-Berlin)
With over 40 years of public service experience, Anne Dielensnyder brings knowledge of the legal system and a history of serving as a guardian ad litem for the Vermont court system. In this role, Dielensnyder assisted with fact-finding and provided recommendations to the presiding judge to help the court make informed decisions. A trained mediator, Dielensnyder has experience with and an understanding of conflict and needs assessments.
“It will be a high honor and privilege to serve as an assistant judge in a judicial role, as well as serving in a county executive management role,” Dielensnyder said in her ballot announcement.
Leah Murphy Jones (D-Montpelier)
Jones is the only current assistant judge running for re-election. A fifth-generation Vermonter, Jones is a small business owner with a professional background as a paralegal in family law firms, and an editor at legal and academic book publishers.
Prior to being elected for the four-year term she is currently serving, Jones was appointed by Gov. Phil Scott to fill a vacancy in 2021. In her role, she has helped lead infrastructure projects, including restoration of the Washington County courthouse and sheriff’s building after the 2023 flood. In a community letter, Jones said she “offers proven judicial and county leadership experience, including courtroom service and overseeing major county projects during challenging times.”
Ture Nelson (R-Berlin)
After earning a degree in law enforcement administration from Western Illinois University, Nelson worked as an investigator for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for 32 years. In his role as division administrator in Vermont, Nelson oversaw investigators who collected evidence, assessed penalties, and enforced laws.
Nelson went on to serve Berlin as interim town administrator following the 2023 floods. He also oversaw the administration of FEMA reimbursements and infrastructure improvements, according to VTDigger.
Nelson previously campaigned for Attorney General. In a 2024 candidate interview with VTDigger, he said: “I’ve gained a new perspective on how our government has lost touch with the people they serve. I intend to put the service back into government service.”
The Washington County primary election is Tuesday, Aug. 11.
