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Guardian ad Litem’s top judge

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10/30/2009

by Mike Sharkey
Staff Writer

Honor goes back to Wilensky’s roots

Nearly two decades ago, Dan Wilensky was a practicing attorney when he signed up as a Guardian ad Litem.

“It was about 18 to 20 years ago and it sort of changed my life,” said Wilensky, who is a County judge in Clay County. “The focus of my law practice became family law and the issues involving children.

“It was most rewarding and it is still the most rewarding work I do. It profoundly impacts people. It’s the most important work in the courts.”

Hilary Creary of Guardian ad Litem said Wilensky embodies the purpose of the award.

“He listens to the parties, applies the laws, applies what makes sense and does what’s good for the kids,” she said. “He thinks outside the box and forces us to think outside the box, which is good. He’s creative and we appreciate that.”

Wilensky said he’s appreciative of the recognition.

“It says ‘judicial advocate’ but this is a children’s advocate award,” he said. “I try to do what’s in the best interest of the children. It’s a huge job dealing with abused, neglected and abandoned children.”

Wilensky became a judge in the Fourth Judicial Circuit about three years ago. Although he lives in Jacksonville, Wilensky requested the Clay County assignment and immediately began the process of establishing a family law division. Today, Wilensky’s and County Court Judge Mack Crenshaw’s caseload is almost too high to believe.

“I share the cases and I easily have 1,000 active cases on my calendar,” said Wilensky. “It’s such meaningful work. I am honored to be there.”

msharkey@baileypub.com

356-2466