Bennett declares for Orangeburg County clerk of court

Bennett is a Holly Hill native and an alumna of Lake Marion High School and Technology Center as well as Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College, where she earned an associate degree in general business alongside a certification in entrepreneurship.

She has served in the legal field for over seven years with the majority of those years being focused on making a meaningful difference in the local Orangeburg County Clerk of Court Office, according to a press release.

Bennett served as a family and criminal court clerk before recently being promoted to the role of legal assistant for the 1st Circuit Public Defender’s Office.

The clerk of court is responsible for maintaining the records of matters heard in the 1st Judicial Circuit Court such as general sessions, felony and misdemeanor cases and common pleas such civil disputes for cases exceeding $7,500. The clerk is also responsible for keeping records for all Family Court proceedings.

“I am honored, excited and humbled to announce my candidacy for Orangeburg County clerk of court,” Bennett said. “My years of experience and dedication to this field come backed by a disciplined, yet innovative, youthfulness which I believe will assist me in bringing forth new ideas.

“I also find it important to revisit and review any plans previously put in place that failed to yield the result our people desired.”

Bennett stated that her goal is “to give Orangeburg County the fresh start everyone knows we need! My plan is to first and foremost build and strategize with the internal customers, which are the employees, so that we can be of better service to our external customers, which are the public, judges, attorneys, law enforcement officers and all valued court personnel.”

Bennett’s press release says her love for the community has led her to give back by way of volunteering in home building with the Edisto Habitat For Humanity “Women Build” and participating in toy drives.

“If elected, I will work tirelessly alongside all court personnel, including but not limited to our attorneys, judges, bondsmen, probation and parole and law enforcement officers. Through a connected and collaborative effort, I desire to bridge the gap between our record keeping, case management and court procedures processes. I will also partner with other agencies to create more resources for the public — ensuring convenience and access to knowledge for all. Passionate leadership, reliable expertise and a set focus on community is what we need to ensure that our local Clerk of Court Office operates with efficiency and excellence. It all starts in-house!”

Bennett is a current member of Greater Unity A.M.E Church located in Holly Hill, as well as the Orangeburg County Chamber of Commerce.