Janelle Cline is running for District Court Judge, Seat 3, which serves Pender and New Hanover Counties. A mom of three young kids, Janelle is dedicated to protecting the community where our children learn and play by ensuring the law is applied with accountability and integrity.
A Foundation in Truth and Advocacy
The daughter of a pastor and a special education teacher, Janelle learned the value of public service early in life. Before entering the legal field, she spent years as a journalist—a career fueled by a love of learning and a tenacity for the truth.
Journalism Career: Janelle worked in newsrooms across the country, starting at WFAE in Charlotte and finishing her career as a news anchor for KATV, the ABC affiliate in Little Rock.
Legal Education: While working full-time as an anchor, she attended night school to earn her law degree from the University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law.
Experienced Legal Leadership
Janelle’s legal career has been defined by complex work and a commitment to justice:
Judicial Insight: She began as a law clerk at the Arkansas Court of Appeals, where she tackled intricate legal issues for the Honorable Raymond Abramson.
Prosecutorial Strength: After moving to Wilmington to be near family, she served as the financial crimes prosecutor for then District Attorney Ben David.
Statewide Experience: Today, she serves as a Special Resource Prosecutor for the North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys, handling complex cases and training prosecutors statewide.
Rooted in Community and Faith
Wilmington is home for Janelle, her husband Jason, and their three children, Luke, Alice, and Lincoln. They are members of Lifepoint Church where she served as a small group leader. Her philosophy is guided by her faith and the words of Micah 6:8, a verse that hangs on the walls of their home as a reminder of what is required of us:
"To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."