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Magisterial District Judge 32-01-23

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    Lee Grimes
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

What specific experience and qualifications make you the best candidate for for this position?

Describe your legal experience in either the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Divisions and how this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

What specific challenges does the Pennsylvania criminal justice system face, and how would you address them?

Campaign Phone 484-424-5568
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JudgeLeeGrimes
An effective judge must have the knowledge, experience, and passion needed to truly serve their community.

Over the past five years, I have had the opportunity to administer over 16,000 cases, from small civil claims, to landlord-tenant cases, to major felonies. This experience, as well as my education at Villanova Law School, have given me knowledge to apply the law correctly. To serve their community, however, judges must have the heart to apply the law justly.

My passion for my community goes beyond the courtroom. I can be found at many different charitable events for organizations involving animal rescue, youth sports, veterans, booster clubs, and others, helping strengthen our community to make it safer and more prosperous.
I have over five years' experience as a Magisterial District Judge, totaling over 16,000 cases. I regularly hear both criminal and civil cases. In addition to my judicial experience, my time as an attorney has given me the additional perspective to help manage a docket and courtroom efficiently, effectively, and fairly.

One of the most unique and valuable aspects of my experience is my proficiency in pro se matters. The vast majority of cases in district court involve self-represented participants. The judge's role in these cases is very sensitive, and requires skill; while the judge cannot favor any side, the judge must also take steps to ensure a full and fair hearing. This is a skill that can only be developed through experience.
Justice is about doing right by one another. Justice is dynamic and participative. It is collaborative, collective, and empowering. We all have a role, and we all have a voice. Our justice system is an expression of our community values and needs.

A strong justice system ensures that both the community and its individuals receive the protection needed to thrive in life. This means holding each other accountable, and also accepting each other once we repay our debts to the community.

Our justice system must meet its challenges by becoming truly community-based. Specifically, it must make itself accessible through education and adequate assistance. We must always strive to make our justice system a reflection of our highest ideals.