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THE DAILY NEWS, CANDIDATE: Michael C. Surles

Trellis, Judge Michael C. Surles: Professional Background and Legal Expertise

Michael is from Jacksonville, Florida. He holds an associate's degree from Coastal Carolina Community College, a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and political science from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and a law degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law. He is married to his wife, Elizabeth, with whom he has 2 sons. He is a Christian and is a member of River of Life Church. 

Michael currently works as an attorney at his own private practice, Law Office of Michael C. Surles. He previously worked as an attorney for a private practice. He served as a Sergeant in the US Marine Corps. 

Michael C. Surles currently serves as a district court judge in District 4. He was elected to this position in 2016 and is serving his second term. He previously served as vice president of the Jacksonville Mall Merchants Association. 

As an attorney at the Law Office of Michael C. Surles., Surles researches, drafts, and files legal documents, and provides defense and counsel to clients.

As an attorney working in private practice, Surles handled civil and criminal matters.

- As an attorney at the Law Office of Michael C. Surles., Surles researches, drafts, and files legal documents, and provides defense and counsel to clients.
- As an attorney working in private practice, Surles handled civil and criminal matters.

Legal Experience

As of June 14, 2024, Michael C. Surles’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Ethics & Conduct

Judicial Administration

Said during 2016 campaign, he opposed increasing taxes to address court demands.

Believes the role of a judge includes using "our life experiences and common sense to make decisions that are for the betterment of all... ".

Supports upholding the U.S. Constitution and protecting citizen's rights in the Constitution.

Advocated for establishing a Veterans’ Treatment Court.

- Said during 2016 campaign, he opposed increasing taxes to address court demands.
- Believes the role of a judge includes using "our life experiences and common sense to make decisions that are for the betterment of all... ".
- Supports upholding the U.S. Constitution and protecting citizen's rights in the Constitution.
- Advocated for establishing a Veterans’ Treatment Court.

Judicial Philosophy

Serves as secretary and treasurer of the Onslow County Bar Association and as a member of the National Rifle Association (NRA).

- Serves as secretary and treasurer of the Onslow County Bar Association and as a member of the National Rifle Association (NRA).

Community Involvement

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Michael C. Surles

- District Court judges hear civil, criminal, and juvenile cases. Civil cases dealing with divorce, child custody, and child support are heard in District Court. 
- Under the District Court, the magistrate can try small claims cases ($10,000 or less), landlord eviction cases, and suits for recovery of personal property. A magistrate is an independent judicial officer, recognized by the North Carolina Constitution as an officer of the district court. 
- District Court Judges are elected for a four-year term. Elections are partisan. 