Jan
8
9:45 AM09:45

Casual Breakfast Conversation - Ocala - Stone Creek Grille

“Four in One” Casual Breakfast Conversation”

1. How Sanctions & Deportation Will Impact Your Portfolio

2. Direct Indexing versus Expensive Funds

3. Defensive Military Procurement Portfolio Investing

4. The 2034 Social Security Pothole

Address: 9676 SW 62nd Lp, Ocala, FL 34481

Map

Click the RESERVATIONS link or call 352-612-1000.

Pre-Conversation Links

December 21, 2024 @ 6:30 PM

We will have a number of items for you to read or lightly review available on Sunday, December 22, 2024.

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Dec
12
9:45 AM09:45

Mortality Income Contractual Agreements & Return Lock – Not Knowing is a Stinker

MICA: Mortality Income Contractual Agreement – Understanding Annuities

The Mortality Income Contractual Agreement (MICA), commonly referred to as an annuity, is one of the most misunderstood yet essential financial concepts in the world. Loved by those who depend on them for retirement income, annuities have a rich history that reflects humanity’s ongoing effort to secure financial stability in later years. Let’s explore their origins, evolution, and the modern innovations reshaping their effectiveness.

The Historical Roots of Annuities

Annuities trace their origins back to ancient Rome, where individuals entered into contracts called annua, which provided a fixed annual income in exchange for an upfront sum of money. Roman soldiers and citizens alike valued these agreements as a means of ensuring a stable income, especially in times of uncertainty.

By the Middle Ages, annuities evolved into a practice known as tontines. Popular in Europe, tontines pooled contributions from individuals, and payments were made to surviving members of the group. Over time, the concept was refined to benefit a wider range of people, becoming a foundation for early retirement systems.

In the early United States, annuities were issued by religious groups, such as churches, to provide for aging members of their congregations. These charitable annuities were the precursors to the structured annuities we see today, offering financial security for the faithful during their golden years.

Annuities and the Foundation of Social Security

The annuity concept gained national prominence with the introduction of Social Security in 1935 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal. Social Security was, in essence, a government-run annuity, where workers contributed payroll taxes to fund a lifetime income upon retirement. Though often misunderstood as a unique system, Social Security functions on the same principles as annuities: pooling contributions and distributing income over time-based on life expectancy.

Defined Benefit Pension Plans: An Employer-Based Annuity

For much of the 20th century, defined benefit pension plans served as a cornerstone of retirement security. These employer-sponsored plans guaranteed retirees a steady income, calculated based on years of service and salary history. Like government annuities, defined benefit pensions rely on actuarial science and the same principles of pooling contributions to fund long-term payouts.

Over time, as these traditional pension systems became less common, commercial and private annuities gained popularity. Today, individuals seeking financial security increasingly turn to private annuities to replace or supplement employer-provided retirement benefits.

Types of Annuities: A Universal Solution

  • Annuities exist in various forms to meet different needs:

  • Government Annuities: Social Security and public pension plans.

  • Employer-Based Annuities: Defined benefit pension plans.

  • Charitable Annuities: Provided by religious or non-profit organizations.

  • Private Annuities: Customized contracts for individuals seeking guaranteed income.

  • Commercial Annuities: Offered by financial institutions, often tailored to market-linked growth.

At their core, all these annuities rely on mathematics and mortality tables to ensure predictable income streams.

Modern Innovations: The Rise of Return Locks

While traditional annuities served their purpose, innovations like Return Locks have redefined the landscape. This feature ensures a guaranteed return, making older annuities less effective by comparison. With these advancements, individuals now have access to options that maximize growth while providing stability, ensuring that their money works as hard as possible for them.

Join the Conversation

Understanding annuities can transform your financial future. Whether it’s through government programs, employer pensions, or innovative private annuities with Return Locks, the math behind these products remains the same: pooling resources to provide steady, secure income.

Let’s explore how these systems work and how they can work for you. Join us for a casual breakfast conversation where we break down these concepts and help you make the most of your retirement income strategy.

Secure your future—because your money should work as hard as you do.

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Dec
11
9:45 AM09:45

The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio When the Indexes Stink

The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio - An Overview

The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio is an investment approach based separately managed account, offering clients the flexibility to exclude holdings at their discretion. A separately managed account (SMA) is a professionally managed investment portfolio tailored to an individual investor’s preferences, offering direct ownership of securities, customization, and potential tax advantages.

A Military Procurement Portfolio portfolio is designed for investors seeking exposure to the robust and historically significant military procurement sector, which has played a pivotal role in shaping global geopolitical landscapes.

Central to the portfolio’s strategy is an appreciation of the funding history of the United States military, a cornerstone of national security and technological innovation. From early defense appropriations to contemporary budget allocations, the U.S. military has consistently driven advancements in areas such as aerospace, cybersecurity, and defense systems. A key example is DARPA, whose pioneering contributions have led to transformational technologies like the internet and GPS.

The discussion extends to the history of military conflicts, which underscore the perpetual need for defense readiness and innovation. Current global tensions highlight the implausibility of a Pollyannaish worldview where international harmony eliminates the necessity for military preparedness. In this context, the portfolio reflects a pragmatic understanding of modern defense imperatives.

A technical discussion on the portfolio’s allocation highlights the advantages of direct ownership, often referred to as direct indexing. This structure provides clients with tailored control, tax optimization, and transparency, ensuring the portfolio aligns with both financial objectives and ethical considerations.

Why Attend

In times of global uncertainty and widespread instability, one constant remains: the United States' unwavering commitment to investing in national defense. Regardless of the challenges that emerge, national security consistently stands as a top priority, supported by steadfast funding. For those concerned about the economic and geopolitical landscape—both domestically and internationally—now is the time to act strategically and ensure your investments align with these enduring priorities.

View Event →
Nov
27
to Nov 29

Video Preview - The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio

  • Online & On-Demand (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

We do Casual Breakfast Conversations for the Working or Retired. 352-612-1000 for Reservations.

Take a drive to Ocala and join Team Truesdell at the Stone Creek Golf Club - The Grille. After a Casual Breakfast Conversation, we can spend time with you discussing a variety of items, including our “No Commission Real Estate” for the seller or buyer. Then take time to enjoy our World Equestrian Center which is down the street from the Truesdell Professional Building.

The Truesdell Professional Building - 200 NW 52nd Avenue | Ocala FL 34481

The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio is an investment approach based separately managed account, offering clients the flexibility to exclude holdings at their discretion. A separately managed account (SMA) is a professionally managed investment portfolio tailored to an individual investor’s preferences, offering direct ownership of securities, customization, and potential tax advantages.

A Military Procurement Portfolio portfolio is designed for investors seeking exposure to the robust and historically significant military procurement sector, which has played a pivotal role in shaping global geopolitical landscapes.

Central to the portfolio’s strategy is an appreciation of the funding history of the United States military, a cornerstone of national security and technological innovation. From early defense appropriations to contemporary budget allocations, the U.S. military has consistently driven advancements in areas such as aerospace, cybersecurity, and defense systems. A key example is DARPA, whose pioneering contributions have led to transformational technologies like the internet and GPS.

The discussion extends to the history of military conflicts, which underscore the perpetual need for defense readiness and innovation. Current global tensions highlight the implausibility of a Pollyannaish worldview where international harmony eliminates the necessity for military preparedness. In this context, the portfolio reflects a pragmatic understanding of modern defense imperatives.

A technical discussion on the portfolio’s allocation highlights the advantages of direct ownership, often referred to as direct indexing. This structure provides clients with tailored control, tax optimization, and transparency, ensuring the portfolio aligns with both financial objectives and ethical considerations.

Why Attend

In times of global uncertainty and widespread instability, one constant remains: the United States' unwavering commitment to investing in national defense. Regardless of the challenges that emerge, national security consistently stands as a top priority, supported by steadfast funding. For those concerned about the economic and geopolitical landscape—both domestically and internationally—now is the time to act strategically and ensure your investments align with these enduring priorities.

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Nov
26
6:45 AM06:45

Video Preview - The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio

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The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio is an investment approach based separately managed account, offering clients the flexibility to exclude holdings at their discretion. A separately managed account (SMA) is a professionally managed investment portfolio tailored to an individual investor’s preferences, offering direct ownership of securities, customization, and potential tax advantages.

A Military Procurement Portfolio portfolio is designed for investors seeking exposure to the robust and historically significant military procurement sector, which has played a pivotal role in shaping global geopolitical landscapes.

Central to the portfolio’s strategy is an appreciation of the funding history of the United States military, a cornerstone of national security and technological innovation. From early defense appropriations to contemporary budget allocations, the U.S. military has consistently driven advancements in areas such as aerospace, cybersecurity, and defense systems. A key example is DARPA, whose pioneering contributions have led to transformational technologies like the internet and GPS.

The discussion extends to the history of military conflicts, which underscore the perpetual need for defense readiness and innovation. Current global tensions highlight the implausibility of a Pollyannaish worldview where international harmony eliminates the necessity for military preparedness. In this context, the portfolio reflects a pragmatic understanding of modern defense imperatives.

A technical discussion on the portfolio’s allocation highlights the advantages of direct ownership, often referred to as direct indexing. This structure provides clients with tailored control, tax optimization, and transparency, ensuring the portfolio aligns with both financial objectives and ethical considerations.

Why Attend

In times of global uncertainty and widespread instability, one constant remains: the United States' unwavering commitment to investing in national defense. Regardless of the challenges that emerge, national security consistently stands as a top priority, supported by steadfast funding. For those concerned about the economic and geopolitical landscape—both domestically and internationally—now is the time to act strategically and ensure your investments align with these enduring priorities.

View Event →
Nov
15
9:45 AM09:45

No Commission Real Estaate

No Commission Real Estate

No Cost / No Obligation

A casual conversation over breakfast with no more than twenty-five guests, led by Paul Grant Truesdell, J.D., AIF, founder of Truesdell Wealth, Inc. Paul will share his insights into the creation of The No Commission Real Estate Buying & Selling Process. He’ll discuss the logic behind this innovative approach to selling and buying real estate. Casual conversations are designed for retirees who want to understand the stability and clarity of the U.S. Military in today’s complex financial landscape. Paul will also introduce the Holistic Organized Wealth℠ (HOW) services offered by Team Truesdell, explaining how their approach help retirees manage The Seven Components of Wealth (The Seven COWS) efficiently, effectively, and confidently.

Casual conversations are a clear, practical way for Team Truesdell to introduce prospective clients to the services of the firms; spanning the five decades, from the 80s through the 2020s.

Reservations Required - Call or Text 212-433-2525 or 352-612-1000

Use the form below to start the process. A confirmation call will come from either 212-433-2525 or 352-612-1000.

The Stone Creek Grille is attached to the Stone Creek Golf Club and is available to the public. The entrance is before the guard gate on the right (east) side.

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Nov
14
9:45 AM09:45

True Estate Documents

True Estate Documents

No Cost / No Obligation

A casual conversation over breakfast with no more than twenty-five guests, led by Paul Grant Truesdell, J.D., AIF, founder of Truesdell Wealth, Inc. Paul will share his insights into the creation of The True Estate Documents Discussion for Florida Residents. He’ll discuss the logic behind the critical estate planning documents everyone must have, including several that you’ve are unlikely to have heard about. Over 40,000 Florida residents have attended Paul’s now retired “Living Trust Reality” workshop. The True Estate Documents is the current 2024-25 version, and it’s amazing.

Casual conversations are designed for retirees who want to understand the stability and clarity of the U.S. Military in today’s complex financial landscape. Paul will also introduce the Holistic Organized Wealth℠ (HOW) services offered by Team Truesdell, explaining how their approach help retirees manage The Seven Components of Wealth (The Seven COWS) efficiently, effectively, and confidently.

Casual conversations are a clear, practical way for Team Truesdell to introduce prospective clients to the services of the firms; spanning the five decades, from the 80s through the 2020s.

Reservations Required - Call or Text 212-433-2525 or 352-612-1000

Use the form below to start the process. A confirmation call will come from either 212-433-2525 or 352-612-1000.

The Stone Creek Grille is attached to the Stone Creek Golf Club and is available to the public. The entrance is before the guard gate on the right (east) side.

View Event →
Nov
12
9:00 AM09:00

Preview: The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio

Video Access Has Expired

The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio

An Overview

The Truesdell Military Procurement Portfolio is an investment approach based separately managed account, offering clients the flexibility to exclude holdings at their discretion. A separately managed account (SMA) is a professionally managed investment portfolio tailored to an individual investor’s preferences, offering direct ownership of securities, customization, and potential tax advantages.

A Military Procurement Portfolio portfolio is designed for investors seeking exposure to the robust and historically significant military procurement sector, which has played a pivotal role in shaping global geopolitical landscapes.

Central to the portfolio’s strategy is an appreciation of the funding history of the United States military, a cornerstone of national security and technological innovation. From early defense appropriations to contemporary budget allocations, the U.S. military has consistently driven advancements in areas such as aerospace, cybersecurity, and defense systems. A key example is DARPA, whose pioneering contributions have led to transformational technologies like the internet and GPS.

The discussion extends to the history of military conflicts, which underscores the perpetual need for defense readiness and innovation. Current global tensions highlight the implausibility of a Pollyannaish worldview where international harmony eliminates the necessity for military preparedness. In this context, the portfolio reflects a pragmatic understanding of modern defense imperatives.

A technical discussion on the portfolio’s allocation highlights the advantages of direct ownership, often referred to as direct indexing. This structure provides clients with tailored control, tax optimization, and transparency, ensuring the portfolio aligns with both financial objectives and ethical considerations.

Why Attend

In times of global uncertainty and widespread instability, one constant remains: the United States' unwavering commitment to investing in national defense. Regardless of the challenges that emerge, national security consistently stands as a top priority, supported by steadfast funding. For those concerned about the economic and geopolitical landscape—both domestically and internationally—now is the time to act strategically and ensure your investments align with these enduring priorities.

View Event →
Oct
9
9:45 AM09:45

Stone Creek Grill - Casual Conversations

Return Lock

No Cost / No Obligation

A casual conversation over breakfast with no more than twenty-five guests, led by Paul Grant Truesdell, J.D., AIF, founder of Truesdell Wealth, Inc. Paul will share his insights into the advantage of The Return Lock Portfolio. Those who are concerned about the drop in inflation, falling CD rates, or sudden and prolonged drops in the market, must attend. He’ll discuss the logic behind this conservative, straightforward asset allocation approach, free from confusing jargon approach to investment management.

Casual conversations are designed for retirees who want to understand the stability and clarity of the U.S. Military in today’s complex financial landscape. Paul will also introduce the Holistic Organized Wealth℠ (HOW) services offered by Team Truesdell, explaining how their approach help retirees manage The Seven Components of Wealth (The Seven COWS) efficiently, effectively, and confidently.

Casual conversations are a clear, practical way for Team Truesdell to introduce prospective clients to the services of the firms; spanning the five decades, from the 80s through the 2020s.

Reservations Required - Call or Text 212-433-2525 or 352-612-1000

Use the form below to start the process. A confirmation call will come from either 212-433-2525 or 352-612-1000.

The Stone Creek Grille is attached to the Stone Creek Golf Club and is available to the public. The entrance is before the guard gate on the right (east) side.

View Event →
Oct
8
9:45 AM09:45

Stone Creek Grill - Casual Conversations

The Military Procurement Portfolio

No Cost / No Obligation

A casual conversation over breakfast with no more than twenty-five guests, led by Paul Grant Truesdell, J.D., AIF, founder of Truesdell Wealth, Inc. Paul will share his insights into the creation of The Military Procurement Portfolio. He’ll discuss the logic behind this conservative, straightforward asset allocation, free from confusing jargon approach to investment management. Casual conversations are designed for retirees who want to understand the stability and clarity of the U.S. Military in today’s complex financial landscape. Paul will also introduce the Holistic Organized Wealth℠ (HOW) services offered by Team Truesdell, explaining how their approach help retirees manage The Seven Components of Wealth (The Seven COWS) efficiently, effectively, and confidently.

Casual conversations are a clear, practical way for Team Truesdell to introduce prospective clients to the services of the firms; spanning the five decades, from the 80s through the 2020s.

Reservations Required - Call or Text 212-433-2525 or 352-612-1000

Use the form below to start the process. A confirmation call will come from either 212-433-2525 or 352-612-1000.

The Stone Creek Grille is attached to the Stone Creek Golf Club and is available to the public. The entrance is before the guard gate on the right (east) side.

View Event →
Aug
23
to Aug 27

Fixed Cost Investing, Direct Ownership, and Equal Weighting

  • The Truesdell Professional Building (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Online & On-Demand / Limited Run
Recorded in Mr. Truesdell’s Private Studio at
The Truesdell Professional Building

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Good morning, afternoon, or evening, I'm Paul Truesdell from Truesdell Wealth Management. Today, I want to talk to you about a smarter, more cost-effective approach to managing your wealth—one that puts your interests first, without the layers of fees and commissions that often chip away at your hard-earned investments.

Our typical clients are those who are within five years of retirement, or already enjoying their retirement. If you’re over the age of 40 and have at least $250,000 in investable assets, this message is particularly important for you.

Direct Ownership and Separately Managed Accounts

Let’s start with the concept of direct ownership, also known as Separately Managed Accounts, or SMAs. Unlike mutual funds or ETFs, where your assets are pooled with those of other investors, direct ownership means you own individual stocks, bonds, or other securities directly. This approach gives you complete control and transparency over your portfolio.

One of the major advantages of SMAs is customization. Your investment strategy can be tailored specifically to your financial goals, risk tolerance, and personal preferences. Whether you want to focus on a particular sector, exclude certain industries, or emphasize socially responsible investments, direct ownership allows you to do that with precision. It’s your portfolio, managed with your objectives in mind.

Fractional Shares: Access and Flexibility

Now, let’s talk about fractional shares. Fractional shares allow you to own a portion of a stock rather than having to buy a whole share. This is particularly useful when investing in high-value companies where a single share might be prohibitively expensive. With fractional shares, you can still participate in the growth of companies like Amazon or Google without needing to commit a large sum of money upfront. It’s all about making your investments more accessible and flexible, ensuring that your portfolio is diversified and aligned with your financial goals.

The Hidden Costs of Traditional Investment Management

Many of you might be familiar with the traditional assets under management (AUM) model, where advisors charge a percentage of your portfolio value as a fee. At first glance, this might seem reasonable. But the reality is, the more you have, the more you pay, and those fees can add up significantly over time. It’s like a quarterly haircut, but instead of trimming your hair, it’s trimming your wealth.

At Truesdell Wealth, we believe there’s a better way—a way that truly aligns with your best interests. We offer a fixed-cost investment advisory service. This means you pay a flat fee for our services, regardless of how much you have invested. This approach eliminates the conflict of interest that comes with the AUM model and ensures that our advice is focused on growing your wealth, not on growing our fees.

The Power of Equal Weighting Portfolios

Another key advantage of our approach is the use of equal-weighting portfolios. In traditional market-cap-weighted portfolios, larger companies dominate your investments. But with equal weighting, each stock in the portfolio has the same weight, regardless of its market capitalization. This strategy can lead to better diversification and potentially higher returns, as it reduces the reliance on a few large companies to drive performance.

Equal weighting can also help mitigate risk. By not being overly exposed to any single company, you can reduce the impact of a downturn in one stock on your overall portfolio. It’s a balanced, disciplined approach to investing that we’ve found to be very effective for our clients.

The Layers of Costs in Bundled Financial Products

Now, let’s talk about costs. Did you know that over 95% of investment advisors essentially sell bundled financial products like mutual funds or ETFs? These products often come with additional layers of fees—fees for the fund managers, fees for the advisors, and fees for third-party asset managers. Each layer adds to the cost, and ultimately, these costs eat into your returns.

At Truesdell Wealth, we believe in transparency and simplicity. We don’t sell you products and then hand off your portfolio to a third party. We manage your investments directly, eliminating unnecessary costs and ensuring that your portfolio is working as hard for you as possible.

Truesdell Wealth: Tradition, Transparency, and Trustworthiness

We’re proud to say that Truesdell Wealth is built on a foundation of tradition, transparency, and trustworthiness. We’ve been serving our clients from our Ocala office for decades—an office that we own and built from the ground up. With experience dating back to the 1980s, we have seen market cycles come and go, and our commitment to our clients has only strengthened over time.

At Truesdell Wealth, we’re not just another financial advisory firm. We’re a legacy, a tradition of fixed-cost investing that truly puts your interests first. If you’re ready to take control of your financial future with a partner who is transparent, experienced, and committed to your success, we’re here to help.

Thank you for your time today. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and help you achieve your financial goals.

Disclaimer

Due to our extensive holdings and our clients, you should assume that we have a position in all companies discussed and that a conflict of interest exists. By listening, reading, or using this document, video, podcast, and/or website in any manner, you understand the information presented is provided for informational purposes only and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Public and group informational items should never be considered professional advice. Nothing said, written, or otherwise communicated should be construed as an offer, recommendation, or solicitation to buy or sell a security. We do not provide tax, legal, or psychological advice. Nothing herein constitutes advice or is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read, viewed, heard, or thought you saw or heard.

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Aug
8
4:00 PM16:00

Private Event - Reservations Required - Sheriff, County Commission, State Representative

  • The Truesdell Professional Building (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Casual Conversations With

Sheriff Billy Woods
County Commissioner Matt McClain
State Representative Ryan Chamberlin

Call 813-682-9744

This meet-and-greet is available to any resident, regardless of political party affiliation, and is sponsored by Paul Grant Truesdell J.D., AlF, President of Truesdell Wealth, Inc. and The Truesdell Companies. It is a Paid Political Advertisement paid for by Truesdell Wealth, 200 NW 52nd Avenue, Ocala, FL 34482, independently of any candidate. This advertisement was not approved by any candidate.

Truesdell Wealth, Inc: Corporate Sponsor

View Event →
Aug
1
8:00 AM08:00

About Events

  • The Truesdell Professional Building (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Current events are listed.

Past events that are available for public use remain on the calendar.

Limited run events are removed from the calendar.

Most events are limited run and thus the calendar appears empty.

View Event →
Jul
23
3:00 PM15:00

Stone Creek Judicial Candidate Forum

Reunion Center Ballroom

For All Stone Creek Residents Refreshments & Independent Candidate Handout

Sponsored by The Stone Creek Republicans and Truesdell Wealth, Inc.

Forum Moderator
Paul Grant Truesdell, J.D., AIF

The Candidate Forum Begins At The
24 Minute, 30 Second Mark

Note: As Mr. Ben Boylston began his talk, we had a hot-swap hard drive issue. Instead of a two-camera shoot, we utilized one. We have the audio but not the video at the start, thus the placeholder slide. This should not be taken as a reflection of preference or intent; it happens.

The Role of Voters in Shaping the Judiciary

Click on the link to open the PDF. The audio is embedded below.

How Information and Awareness Influence Judicial Elections

Overcoming Challenges in Evaluating Judicial Candidates

The Importance of Informed Decision-Making in Judicial Selection

June 2024

By:

Paul Grant Truesdell, J.D., AlF, CLU, ChFC, RFC
Founder of The Truesdell Companies


Private Podcast Transcription - Rough

Welcome to a podcast production by The Truesdell Companies, the corporate sponsor, in conjunction with the Stone Creek Republicans, led by Mister Greg Ratliff.

There are quite a few Circuit Court judges that are up for reelection; however, only one has a challenger, and two seats are vacant. Thus, there are three judgeships that will be decided during the conclusion of this year’s primary.

All six judicial candidates have agreed to attend the Stone Creek judicial forum. On Tuesday, July 23rd. Doors to the Reunion Center Ballroom will open at 3 pm and the Forum will begin at 3:30 pm.

A variety of refreshments and drinks will be available, courtesy of The Truesdell Companies, along with an all-candidate handout.

Mister Paul Truesdell, the founder of the Truesdell Companies, will be the director and moderator for the forum.

Now, as for this podcast page. Mr. Truesdell directed that we record the information that will appear in the handout, as a way to get everyone in attendance up and running as to how judicial elections are held in the State of Florida.

If you are new to the state, well. Welcome to an amazing state and one of the best darn retirement communities in the nation.

Okay then, let’s get on with this.

We’ve divided the information into sections, the next one being and overview as to why we’re taking the time to lay it out in plain language the laws, rules, regulations, and overall understanding by the voters here, and well, everywhere.

Judicial elections are typical “down ballot” contests, rarely capturing the interest of most voters. Many judicial candidates, standing for election, along with nominees, have refrained from answering certain questions during their campaigns or confirmation hearings on the ground that responding to those questions would contravene norms of judicial ethics or the Constitution. Various canons of judicial conduct, promote the independence and integrity of the judiciary, and specifically discourages candidates and nominees from fully answering certain questions that the voters and Senators in Washington, in terms of federal appointments, may pose to them. These canons squarely prohibit some forms of conduct during the judicial races, such as demeaning language, conduct, and behavior.

Democracies have long grappled with the tension between judicial independence and accountability.

Some states choose justices through partisan elections that are similar to ones for the legislative branch. Other states use contested elections but require the ballot to be nonpartisan, akin to the nonpartisan elections that exist in many localities for offices such as mayor. Increasingly, some states such as Florida, have chosen to use both the “merit” or “retention election” plan, in combination with the appointment process.

Is it complex. Yes.

voters suffer from a lack of access to information about judicial candidates that becomes even more threatening as judges are increasingly targeted for defeat in single-issue campaigns. At the same time, information on the costs of running for elected judicial office shocks and disturbs public sentiment.

From an academic perspective, the question of what citizens view as important in selecting judges has not been extensively explored. There are obvious desires, such as "being fair and impartial, and protecting people without power, along with strictly follow the law. However, many decisions are based on party affiliation.

Regardless, it is difficult to assess anyone without a history of judicial decisions and actions. In addition, thousands of spot on cases leads to a pristine reputation, only to be derailed by one or two bad events that are beyond one’s control.

So, let’s cover a few things to consider.

1. Is the candidate Respected by elected political officials?

2. Does the candidate have Experience running for and holding political office?

3. Is the candidate an Experienced criminal prosecutor?

4. Does the candidate have Strong support from the leaders of one’s preferred political party?

5. Does the candidate Understand community preferences and are they Active in community organizations?

6. Does the candidate have Deep legal and real world, practical experience, knowledge, and a Reputation for integrity and ethical standards

7. Does the candidate have Substantial experience practicing law in the courtroom.

8. Is the candidate a good listener

9. And lastly, is the candidate Respected by leaders of the community and endorsed by those who are actively engaged in the judicial system, day in and day out.

Now, let’s get into the weeds. The details about the 5th Judicial Circuit and the overall court system.

Circuit Court Judge Eligibility

To be eligible for the office of circuit judge, a person must be an elector of a county within the circuit and must have been admitted to the practice of law in the state for the preceding five years. Circuit court judges are elected by the voters of the circuits at the time of primary elections and are listed as nonpartisan (meaning their political party affiliation, if any, does not appear on the ballot). Circuit court judges serve for six-year terms. A chief judge from the circuit is chosen from among the circuit judges and county judges in each judicial circuit to carry out administrative responsibilities for all trial courts (both circuit and county courts).

The Florida Supreme Court (1)

The Supreme Court of Florida is the highest court in the U.S. state of Florida. It consists of seven justices— one of whom serves as Chief Justice. Six members are chosen from six districts around the state to foster geographic diversity, and one is selected at large. The justices are appointed by the governor to set terms, which do not exceed six years. Immediately after appointment, the initial term is three years or less because the justices must appear on the ballot in the next general election that occurs more than one year after their appointment. Afterward, they serve six-year terms and remain in office if retained in the general election near the end of each term. Citizens vote on whether or not they want to retain each justice in office.

Circuit Courts of Appeal (6)

Stone Creek (Marion) – 5th Appellate

The Fifth District Court of Appeal is located in Daytona Beach and consists of twelve judges.

District Circuit Courts (20)

Stone Creek (Marion) – 5th Circuit

Located in the heart of central Florida, the Fifth Judicial Circuit covers a geographical area larger than Rhode Island, Delaware, and approaches the size of Connecticut. The residential population is larger than the states of Wyoming, Vermont, Alaska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Delaware, Rhode Island, Montana, and the District of Columbia. Adjusting for growth since 2023, the circuit is likely now more populated than the state of Maine. The circuit is comprised of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Marion, and Sumter Counties, with main administrative offices in Ocala. The circuit currently has thirty-one Circuit Court Judges and fourteen County Court Judges. The circuit is part of the Fifth District Court of Appeal, located in Daytona Beach. The circuit has in excess of 164,510 court filings per year

Circuit Court Jurisdiction

Circuit courts have general trial jurisdiction over matters not assigned to county courts and hear authorized appeals of certain administrative, noncriminal infraction, and other cases. They are both the highest trial courts and the lowest appellate courts in Florida's judicial system. Their trial jurisdiction includes civil disputes involving more than $50,000, controversies involving estates of decedents, minors, and incapacitated persons, juvenile cases, felony prosecutions, tax disputes, property title and boundary disputes, declaratory judgment suits, and injunction requests to prevent unlawful actions.

Marion County, Florida, population 380,000+, has 1,588.4 square miles of land area and is the 5th largest county in Florida by total area. Marion County is larger than the State of Rhode Island by 554.8 square miles and the Northern Mariana Islands (a commonwealth territory of the United States). Marion County, Florida is bordered by Levy County, Florida, Citrus County, Florida, Putnam County, Florida, Sumter County, Florida, Volusia County, Florida, Alachua County, Florida, and Lake County, Florida. There are 11 circuit and 5 county judges for Marion.

Lake County, Florida, population 390,000+, has 952.1 square miles of land area and is the 18th largest county in Florida by total area. Lake County, Florida is bordered by Seminole County, Florida, Marion County, Florida, Osceola County, Florida, Polk County, Florida, Sumter County, Florida, Volusia County, Florida, and Orange County, Florida. There are currently 10 circuit and 4 county judges for Lake.

Sumter County, Florida, population 130,000+, has 557.1 square miles of land area and is the 51st largest county in Florida by total area. Sumter County, Florida is bordered by Pasco County, Florida, Marion County, Florida, Citrus County, Florida, Polk County, Florida, Hernando County, Florida, and Lake County, Florida. There are 3 circuit and 1 county judges for Sumter.

Citrus County, Florida, population 153,000+, has 581.9 square miles of land area and is the 48th largest county in Florida by total area. Citrus County, Florida is bordered by Levy County, Florida, Marion County, Florida, Sumter County, Florida, and Hernando County, Florida. There are 4 circuit and 2 county judges for Citrus.

Hernando County, population 200,000+, Florida has 473.0 square miles of land area and is the 62nd largest county in Florida by total area. Hernando County, Florida is bordered by Pasco County, Florida, Citrus County, Florida, and Sumter County, Florida. There are 6 circuit and 2 county judges for Hernando.

County Courts

There are 67 counties in the State of Florida and the Constitution establishes a county court in each. The number of judges in each county court system varies with the population and caseload of the county. County judges serve six-year terms. The majority of non-jury trials in Florida take place before a county court judge. The county courts are sometimes referred to as "the people's courts," as the county courts' work involves a myriad of citizen disputes, such as traffic offenses, less serious criminal matters (misdemeanors), and relatively small monetary disputes.

Florida Election Code

105.071 Candidates for judicial office; limitations on political activity.

A candidate for judicial office shall not:

(1) Participate in any partisan political party activities, except that such candidate may register to vote as a member of any political party and may vote in any party primary for candidates for nomination of the party in which she or he is registered to vote. (2) Campaign as a member of any political party. (3) Publicly represent or advertise herself or himself as a member of any political party. (4) Endorse any candidate. (5) Make political speeches other than in the candidate's own behalf. candidates other than in the candidate's own behalf. (6) Make contributions to political party funds. (7) Accept contributions from any political party. (8) Solicit contributions for any political party. (9) Accept or retain a place on any political party committee. (10) Make any contribution to any person, group, or organization for its endorsement to judicial office. (11) Agree to pay all or any part of any advertisement sponsored by any person, group, or organization wherein the candidate may be endorsed for judicia! office by any such person, group, or organization.

A candidate for judicial office or retention therein who violates the provisions of this section is liable for a civil fine of up to $1,000 to be determined by the Florida Elections Commission.

And now a few concluding remarks from Mr. Paul Truesdell, a resident landowner, commercial developer and founder of the multifaceted companies that comprise the Truesdell Companies. Mr. And Mrs. Truesdell have been active members of the traditional fabric of Marion County. Together, they have nearly 80 years of professional business experience. Mr. Truesdell, as we wrap up, we want to emphasize the importance of your involvement in the judicial election process. Your participation ensures a fair and accountable judiciary that reflects our community's values. Now remember, evaluating judicial candidates requires considering their respect from officials, political and prosecutorial experience, support from party leaders, understanding of community preferences, legal and practical experience, integrity, courtroom experience, listening skills and endorsements from community leaders on behalf of everyone at the Truesdell companies, and speaking on behalf of Mr. Greg Ratliff and the Stone Creek Republicans, we appreciate your commitment to being informed voters. Your engagement is crucial in maintaining the integrity of our judicial system, and we hope that this podcast has provided valuable insights that will help you make informed decisions at the polls again. Thank you. Thank you for listening, and a special thanks to Mr. Greg Ratliff for allowing us to become a sponsor of this event, and if you're new to the state, once again, welcome to one of the best retirement communities in the nation. We look forward to seeing you at the Stone Creek judicial forum, and we sincerely appreciate your participation. So stay informed, stay engaged, and thank you for being an active part of our democratic process. Thank.


For more information about the Stone Creek Republicans, email Greg Ratliff at screpint@gmail.com

The “all” resident Candidate Presentation was sponsored by the Stone Creek Republicans and Truesdell Wealth, Inc., a registered investment advisor and member of The Truesdell Companies. The Truesdell Professional Building / 200 NW 52nd Avenue, Ocala FL 34482 / 352-612-1000 or 212-433-2525


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