Candidate Profile: Christina Arguelles

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What professional experiences have best prepared you for the bench?

For more than a decade, I've handled complex civil litigation in Florida courts, representing clients through every stage of a case, from investigation to trial. Civil litigation often overlaps with many other areas of law, including family law, probate and trusts, bankruptcy, immigration, and even criminal matters. That breadth of experience has given me a well-rounded understanding of the legal system and reinforced the importance of preparation, careful analysis, and treating every person who comes before the court with fairness and respect.

What role should personal values play in judicial decision-making?

I believe qualities like integrity, humility, respect, and compassion are essential to being a good judge, and I strive to bring those values to everything I do. They shape how a judge listens to people, treats everyone with dignity, and conducts the courtroom. But when it comes to making decisions, the law, not personal beliefs or opinion, must always come first. Every person deserves to know their case will be decided fairly, based on the facts and the law.

How do you balance precedent with evolving societal standards?

Our legal system depends on consistency and fairness. A judge's role is to faithfully apply the law and follow binding precedent. When the law changes through the Legislature or higher courts, judges apply those changes, but they should never substitute their own views for the law.

What steps do you take to avoid conflicts of interest?

Public confidence in our courts depends on impartiality. I take ethical responsibilities seriously by being transparent, recognizing potential conflicts early, and following Florida's judicial ethics rules. If a conflict requires recusal, I would not hesitate to step aside to protect the integrity of the process.

What barriers to justice do you see in the current system, and how would you address them?

Two of the biggest barriers to justice are delay and cost. When cases take too long, legal expenses increase, uncertainty grows, and it becomes more difficult for families and businesses to move forward. As a judge, I would prioritize effective case management, clear communication, and timely resolution of cases whenever possible. Keeping cases moving while giving each one the attention it deserves helps reduce unnecessary costs, improves access to justice, and ensures every litigant receives a fair and efficient process.