Apache Junction City Council member Kelly Gremmel recently announced plans to run for justice of the peace for the Apache Junction Justice Court.

Gremmel said she has been encouraged by many voters to run for justice of the peace for precinct 6, which encompasses Apache Junction, Gold Canyon and parts of San Tan Valley, according to a release.

The current justice of the peace, Douglas Coleman, is not seeking re-election.

“I truly love serving as a council member, yet my nearly 30 years’ experience with the court system has prepared me to serve as our local justice of the peace,” Gremmel said in the release.

Gremmel worked for the city of Phoenix prosecutor’s office for nearly 30 years, gaining extensive experience in the criminal justice field, the release states.

Her career with the city began shortly after graduating from Northern Arizona University. Gremmel started with the prosecutor’s office in 1985 as a legal assistant, working her way through the ranks to retire as the administrator of the victim services unit.

“I thoroughly enjoyed helping victims navigate the criminal justice system while protecting their rights. I worked hard to ensure they were being heard and treated fairly,” Gremmel said. “I love the law, especially criminal law, and because of that love I have worked my entire career in the legal field. I have worked closely with judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys and court personnel throughout my career; this extensive experience has equipped me well for this important position.”

She has further prepared for the opportunity by obtaining advanced training from the Administrative Office of the Courts and by being appointed by the Pinal County Superior Court as a hearing officer, she said in the release.

“With this training and appointment, I have been sitting on the bench for the Apache Junction and the Pioneer Justice Courts, ruling on civil traffic and small claims cases as a volunteer. I am seizing every opportunity I can to be ready to serve as your judge on day one,” Gremmel said.

“I will treat everyone with respect and professionalism. I have always been committed to the fairness and the rights of all people, whether they are the victim or the accused.”