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Amestoy running unopposed for county attorney

Ed Amestoy, Attorney for Phillips County, is seeking re-election to the position in the June 5 Primary and is running unopposed. Amestoy has been the County Attorney for over the past 20-years and what follows is his candidate Q&A.

Tell us about yourself:

I have a Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Business from Montana State University/Bozeman and received my law degree from the University of Montana/Missoula. My wife, Jolene, and I moved to Malta in 1984 and I have been practicing law here since that time. During my time here I have served on many volunteer boards and organizations. I have raised four children in Phillips County. Scott is an Optometrist and lives in Fairbanks, Alaska. Kevin and Brett are both in their final year of pharmacy school in Missoula and will obtain their doctorates in May 2019. Jenise is finishing her second year in college at Missoula. Phillips County has been very good to me and I thank the people of Phillips County for giving me the opportunity to serve as County Attorney.

What is your motivation in running for office?

To continue to provide consistent representation of the agencies and departments of Phillips County and the State of Montana.

What issues concern you in the position you are running for?

There are many issues which arise for a County Attorney. In addition to the prosecution of criminal cases, the County Attorney is responsible for providing legal counsel to the County Commissioners and all of the County Offices. The County Attorney is also required to represent various State Agencies such as the Department of Public Health and Human Services, Fish and Game, and Department of Livestock. One of the greatest concerns the community faces is the illegal use of pain medication and meth. Drug use is not a victimless crime as it often is associated with violent crimes, property crimes, and child abuse and neglect.

What skills/attributes make you a good candidate for the position?

I was appointed as Phillips County Attorney in January 1994 and have continued to serve as Phillips County Attorney since that time. Deputy County Attorney, Dan O'Brien, and I have worked together in the County Attorney's Office for over 20 years. We work well together and with the agencies and departments we represent and want to continue to represent Phillips County.

 

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