ROGERS CITY — Four candidates are running in the Aug. 6 primary for Presque Isle County probate judge: James Gilbert, Kim Gildner, Jeremiah Wirgau, and Matt Wojda.

Each brings a unique background and set of experiences to the table, promising to serve the community with integrity and dedication.

Gilbert, an attorney with more than 25 years of legal experience, has built his career in private and public defense. His journey began in Cheboygan, where he practiced with his father before his passing. Gilbert said his extensive work in probate law and as a public defender in both Presque Isle and Cheboygan counties has provided him with a deep understanding of the legal system and the needs of the community.

“I am by far the most experienced candidate,” Gilbert said. “I’ve been practicing law the longest and have a deep connection to this area.”

Gilbert said his focus on helping children and families through the probate system is a testament to his dedication.

“In the probate area, you’re working with kids and helping parents become better parents,” he said. “The goal is to reunite children with their parents in a better living situation.”

Gildner brings experience in family law and probate matters to her candidacy. For the past nine years, she has served as an attorney referee in the 26th Circuit Court, handling cases involving domestic issues, child neglect, abuse, and juvenile cases.

“I believe my understanding of these sensitive matters has equipped me well with compassion and the judgment required to navigate the complexities of probate court,” Gildner said.

Her experience extends to her time as the attorney magistrate for the 88th District Court in Alpena County, where she managed a variety of legal proceedings.

Gildner also served as the Friend of the Court staff attorney and ran her own law firm focusing on trust, estate, real estate, probate, and business law.

Wirgau, an attorney from Posen, believes he brings a different perspective to the race. With a deep connection to Presque Isle County, Wirgau emphasized his local roots and personal experience in the community.

“I understand Presque Isle County families and our culture better than any of my opponents ever will,” Wirgau said.

Wirgau said he has prosecuted abuse and neglect cases in Presque Isle County for the last seven years.

“The most important thing that the probate judge does is handle the child abuse and neglect cases,” he said.

Wojda has been an attorney for 15 years and said he decided to become a lawyer to help people, and he views the probate judge position as an extension of that mission.

Wojda has represented businesses, employers, and individuals facing various challenges, including criminal issues.

“The probate judge position is where you’re dealing with some of the most vulnerable members of society,” Wojda said. “Whether it’s children who have been subjected to abuse, families grieving lost loved ones, or individuals needing mental health treatment or financial management help, it’s important to have someone with compassion and the capacity to address these needs.”

Wojda emphasized the importance of understanding and applying the law fairly and with compassion. He has practiced in numerous counties across Michigan in state and federal courts. His background includes handling civil disputes, employment issues, civil rights cases, and more.

“My great-grandparents raised 18 kids in Presque Isle County, and I’ve always had a deep connection to this area,” Wojda said. “I think it’s really nice to be able to read and understand the law, and to apply that fairly and with compassion to all the parties that are in front of that judge.”

CORRECTION: Matt Wojda is one of four candidates seeking the probate judgeship in Presque Isle County. His name was misspelled in an earlier version of this story.

Temi Fadayomi can be reached at 989-358-5693 or tfadayomi@thealpenanews.com.