Experienced.
Community Focused.
Proven Leadership.
With over 30 years of legal and judicial service, Jennie Thomason is committed to making our courthouse more accessible, efficient, and welcoming for every member of our community.
About Jennie
My name is Jennie Wells Thomason, and I am running for New Hanover County Clerk of Superior Court. I was born and raised in Wilmington, and I am a proud graduate of the New Hanover County public school system. I earned a Bachelor of Social Work from NC State University and a Law degree from the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law. I have over 30 years of professional experience providing judicial services, legal representation, advocacy, and direct services to individuals, children, families, and members of our most vulnerable populations.
A few of my professional highlights include serving as the Court Advocate for Domestic Violence Shelter and Services (The Open Gate) in Wilmington, as a Staff Attorney for the Department of Social Services (Child Protective Services) and over seven years of service to the citizens of New Hanover County as a Magistrate Judge. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to public service and to helping my clients and the citizens of New Hanover County to navigate complex legal systems and processes.
I live in Wilmington with my husband John, my son Jack and three very spoiled cats. I am so proud to be raising my son in the same neighborhood where I grew up (three streets over from my childhood home). In my free time, I enjoy cooking, watching movies and spending quiet time with my family. My parents, Jim and Carolyn Wells, are also long time Wilmingtonians and are my biggest supporters.
I Believe:
A courthouse should focus on customer service.
A courthouse should be welcoming and accessible to all.
Everyone who enters the courthouse should receive clear, consistent, and accurate information.
Efficiency matters. Streamlined workflows, modern tools, and accountability will reduce backlogs, respect everyone's time, and ensure accuracy and integrity.
My leadership abilities, legal expertise, and commitment to kindness and compassion will transform the Clerk's office into an accessible, welcoming place for all who enter.
Why Vote for Me
As an attorney and former Magistrate Judge in New Hanover County, I have first-hand knowledge of the day-to-day operations of the courts and the courthouse. I know what works, what doesn’t work, and where improvements need to be made.
With 20 years of legal experience, I am uniquely qualified to ensure that the Clerk’s office will uphold the law, safeguard records and lead with integrity. Current systems and procedures need to be reviewed, re-evaluated and updated to ensure that records are properly maintained, and requests for records are handled promptly and in accordance with the law.
Throughout my career in Social Work, Law, and on the Bench, I have demonstrated the ability to manage difficult situations with kindness, patience and empathy. I have always made critical decisions by leading with fairness and compassion.
Under my leadership you will see a Clerk’s office that communicates clearly, operates transparently, and prioritizes service above all. My priorities are simple: exceptional customer service, transparency, and effective time management. Leadership sets the tone, and I will lead by example.
A well-run Clerk’s office truly serves the community while strengthening the entire justice system. My goal is to make the New Hanover County Clerk’s Office the most efficient and professional in North Carolina. With strong leadership and collaboration, we can restore confidence and deliver the level of service our community deserves.
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