Second Circuit Judge Group 7
Type of race: Non-partisan
Who can vote: All registered voters can vote in nonpartisan races.
What’s next: The winner will be sworn in on January 5, 2027.
How much does this position pay: $200,836
Jason Jones
Age: 48
Profession: Circuit Judge
Qualifications: Previously a Leon County Judge, Florida Department of Law Enforcement General Counsel, FDLE legal advisor, assistant state attorney. Florida Bar member for 22 years.
Website: judgejasonjones.com
What do you perceive to be the greatest obstacle to justice in 2026?
A: Lack of resources. Whether it is the inability to retain counsel of one’s choice, access reliable technology, or transportation, many low-income residents do not have the same meaningful access to the justice system as those with greater financial means. Judges should treat every person with dignity and respect and, when permitted by law, consider the impact that limited resources can have on a litigant’s ability to fully participate. In my courtroom, I allow flexibility for technology issues and occasional tardiness, and I make a point of thoroughly explaining court procedures and my decisions so that every litigant understands the process.
Explain your judicial philosophy and how that would guide your actions on the bench.
A: Judges should apply the law, as written, to the facts of the case and not let personal beliefs influence their decisions. Judges should be compassionate and treat everyone who appears before them with respect. I have a proven track record as a judge who follows the law and is fair and compassionate to all people. You do not have to guess what kind of judge I will be. You have thousands of examples of the type of judge I am. This is evidenced by the diverse group of people and attorneys from all areas of practice who support my campaign.
Stephanie Cager
Age: 43
Profession: Attorney with a background in contract law, public health, procurement, child welfare, and government service.
Qualifications: Licensed to practice in Florida and Louisiana; diverse legal experience spanning contracts, procurement, public health, child welfare, real estate, and technology; committed to fairness, impartiality, and integrity.
Website: cagerforjudge.com
What do you perceive to be the greatest obstacle to justice in 2026?
A: I believe the greatest obstacle to justice in 2026 is preserving public trust in the judicial system and meaningful access to justice that treats all people with dignity and fairness. Confidence in the court system weakens when standard procedures are not followed and litigants face barriers such as limited resources, reduced access to counsel, transportation challenges, and scheduling delays. Equal and meaningful access to justice requires more than just equal laws. It requires accommodations that are consistent with the law and allows every person a fair opportunity to access the courts and the protection of the laws.
Explain your judicial philosophy and how that would guide your actions on the bench.
A: My judicial philosophy, crafted from years of working in contract law, has cemented the undeniable fact that seemingly small details can have significant legal consequences. This guides my legal analysis each day. My north star on the bench would be every case is a life, a community member, and a story that is impacted by what we do. This philosophy requires more than just legal knowledge and experience. It requires a genuine love of the legal landscape, daily preparation, unwavering professionalism, patience, and the ability to foster trust in those you lead, as well as confidence in the judicial process.
Elena Barrera can be reached at ebarrera@tallahassee.com. Follow her on X: @elenabarreraaa.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Second Circuit Judge Group 7: Voter guide to the 2026 election
Reporting by Elena Barrera, Tallahassee Democrat / Tallahassee Democrat
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Elena Barrera, Tallahassee Democrat | USA TODAY Network
