Election Q&A

     What does a Court of Common Pleas Judge do?

A Judge of the Court of Common Pleas is a judicial officer of general jurisdiction in the County where they preside.  It is a position of great responsibility.  Typically referred to as “trial court judges,” Common Pleas Judges preside over criminal, civil, family, juvenile, and orphans’ court matters.  Judges also preside over criminal and civil jury and non-jury trials, accept pleas from criminal defendants, and impose sentences, among other important responsibilities.   

     How many Judicial Offices are up for election in 2025?

In what is the first time in the history of Lawrence County, there will be three open Judicial Offices on the ballot for election in 2025.

     What qualities should a candidate for Common Pleas        Judge possess?

While opinions may vary on this, as well as personal preference, it is generally accepted that a judicial candidate should possess a thorough knowledge of the law, have extensive and diverse experience in the practice of law, and maintain an even-handed temperament.  Judges must be fair, unbiased, and make decisions based on an adherence to the rule of law rather than personal or political preference.  

     How do judicial candidates appear on the primary ballot?

Under Pennsylvania election law, judicial candidates are permitted to file nomination petitions to appear as candidates on either or both the Republican and Democratic primary ballots.  When a candidate appears on both ballots, it is commonly referred to as “cross-filing.”  

     What is the term of office of a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas?

In Pennsylvania, Judges of the Court of Common Pleas are elected to ten year terms, and are subject to retention elections after each term.  While that may seem like a long time, the framers of the Pennsylvania Constitution wanted to ensure that Judges, once elected, can make fair and unbiased decisions based on the law, rather than political consideration or ideology.  

     Jonathan, why are you running for Judge and what are your qualifications for this  position?

I have dedicated the better part of my career as an attorney to public service, taking on various roles that were not easy tasks, but necessary, both inside and outside the courtroom.  With the departure of three veteran judges this year, I want to carry on my passion and dedication for public service, hard work, fairness and the pursuit of justice, to the judicial bench.  I am grateful to have had a really diverse legal background in my career, from working as a civil litigator in Pittsburgh, to opening a community-oriented private law practice here in Lawrence County, to serving as an Assistant District Attorney specializing in child protection, to also serving the City of New Castle as a municipal solicitor.  I believe this background and my track record of proven success in public service will allow me to be an effective, fair, and dedicated trial court judge.