Judge Lora T. Baker was appointed to serve as a District Court Judge in Henderson, Transylvania and Polk counties (Judicial District 42) in November 2023. Prior to her appointment, Judge Baker practiced law for 15 years trying every type of case that a district court judge would hear. Judge Baker treats parties with respect and consideration, applying her knowledge in an unbiased and fair manner. As an Unaffiliated Candidate, Judge Baker believes that politics do not belong in the courtroom.
During her legal practice, Judge Baker handled domestic, criminal, civil, administrative, and corporate matters. She handled appellate abuse/neglect/dependency cases, worked as a Guardian ad Litem attorney advocate representing the best interests of minor children, and was the town attorney for the Town of Columbus, NC.
Judge Baker has served on the Board of Directors for Pisgah Legal Services, WCCA/WNCSource, and Thermal Belt Outreach. She has been a part of the NC Advocates for Justice, NC Bar Association, served as the President of the Polk County Bar Association for many years, and served as the President of the bar association for Judicial District 42.
Judge Baker lives in Tryon, NC and shares an 8-year-old son, 5-year-old daughter, and a golden doodle ("Moose") with her husband of nearly 20 years. She is a member at the First Baptist Church of Tryon. Judge Baker likes to hike, 'adventure' outside with the kids, discover new places, and spend time with her family.
"Every case matters. Every person deserves respect."
Everyone deserves an opportunity to be heard. The essential role of a judge is to ensure the fair administration of justice.
Electing District Court Judges with even temperament, strong moral character, patience, and knowledge is essential to ensuring a functioning judicial system.
If you need a divorce, get a DWI, are in a fight for custody, have a significant money dispute, are a victim in a criminal matter---it's likely you'll be in District Court. Even if you don't, likely someone in your family, neighborhood, or friend group will. The person you help elect to this role, and her decisions from the bench, will greatly impact your life. Make sure you know the character of the person you help elect to this position.
Unaffiliated. Unbiased. Uncompromised.
Although political parties are incredibly helpful in electing law makers, Judge Baker does not make laws, she enforces them.
Being formally associated with a political party means that judges are perceived as more likely to rule one way or the other based on party politics. Judges should apply the law to the facts, nothing more, nothing less.
Our nation has never been more divided over the judiciary and the perception of bias. There shouldn't be liberal judges or conservative judges--just fair judges.
Shouldn't our district have a judge that will be fair to all people regardless of their political affiliation?
Media
Find interviews and news articles that Judge Baker has given to learn more about her stance on justice and politics in Henderson, Transylvania, and Polk Counties and beyond.
