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Education
Villanova School of Law, Juris Doctorate 1992
Experience
DiDonato & Burke, LLC f/k/a Borum, Burke & DiDonato, LLC, Legal Counsel Coldwell Banker Hearthside & Addison Wolfe Real Estate, Assistant District Attorney, Philadelphia 1992-2002,
The most important quality in a judge is impartiality. A Judge must base decisions solely on facts and law, free from personal bias, favoritism, and outside influence. Impartiality is the foundation of a fair legal system; ensuring that every party receives equal treatment under the law and that decisions are grounded in justice, not prejudice or politics. This not only ensures fairness but also upholds public confidence in the courts. While traits like integrity, diligence, and legal knowledge are vital, they support a judge's ability to remain impartial and keep an open mind. Judicial impartiality is protected through codes of conduct, recusal rules and appellate review. However, it can be threatened by political pressure, media scrutiny, or personal beliefs, making it critical that judges remain steadfast in their commitment to impartiality. This commitment is essential to upholding judicial integrity and public confidence.
I would recuse myself in any matter where recusal is required by law and in any situation where I believe I could not maintain the most critical quality in a judge: impartiality. While each case is fact specific, I would also recuse myself in circumstances where, although the law may not mandate recusal, the appearance of impropriety is so significant that failing to do so would likely undermine public confidence in my decisions.
I will continue engaging in regular self-reflection and training to address unconscious bias, participate in cultural competency training to better understand the diverse backgrounds of those who appear in court and encourage all court staff to do the same.. In cases with self-represented litigants, I will provide additional guidance and use plain language in my decisions. I’m committed to making court materials accessible and understandable to people with diverse literacy and legal knowledge. I will support fee waivers, advocate for public outreach, and improve online resources. I will continue to engage with community groups and attend local events to build trust and promote legal education at the grass roots level.
Education
Central Bucks School District; St. Joseph's University (B.S Accounting); Temple University School of Law (Juris Doctor)
Experience
32 years as a trial lawyer, litigating in multiple areas of the law, including employment, commercial and special education.
Impartiality is the cornerstone of the judiciary. Judges should apply and follow the law strictly, fairly and without any bias or prejudice. All parties and counsel coming before the court, no matter their race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, status as a disabled person, political affiliation or other protected class, should be treated with the same respect, civility and dignity. Judges are public servants and the public has the right to expect that judges will conduct themselves with the highest degree to ethics, both inside and outside of the courtroom.
A judge should recuse herself or himself in cases where the judge's ability to rule impartially is compromised. As such, I would recuse myself when faced with an actual conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest, including matters involving: family members and close friends, prior clients, attorneys from my law firm, cases for which I have personal knowledge about disputed facts at issue and any matter for which I or a family member or close friend have an economic or non-economic interest in the outcome of the matter before me.
Equal access to justice is paramount. I would foster equal access by continuing to teach in community based civics programs, such as the one offered through the Bucks County Community College adult forum, since knowledge of one's legal rights is essential. As a long time advocate for those with mental health and special needs, I would ensure that individuals with physical and/ or cognitive disabilities (as well as those individuals where English is a second language) have necessary supports in the courtroom. I would offer available pro bono legal counsel and I would waive court costs for financially eligible parties. Lastly, I would allow video conferenced testimony if appropriate under the circumstances.
Education
Connecticut College - B.A.; University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly U.C. Hastings), J.D.
Experience
Currently serving as County Solicitor - the Chief Civil Legal Officer for the County of Bucks. Previously worked at two national law firms as a civil litigator.
The most important quality in a judge is impartiality. A judge must apply the law fairly and consistently, without bias or personal agenda. This means treating every person who enters the courtroom with respect, listening with an open mind, and deciding cases based solely on the facts and the law. At the county level—where judges routinely handle matters that deeply affect families, businesses, and neighborhoods—impartiality isn’t just a professional duty; it’s the foundation for public confidence in the legal system. Impartiality builds trust not just among litigants, but throughout the community. Without that trust, the public loses faith in the rule of law, and our entire constitutional democracy begins to erode. Judges play a vital role in preserving that trust by remaining neutral, principled, and committed to justice above all else.
Recusal is important because it safeguards the fairness and integrity of the judicial process. It ensures that cases are decided solely on the facts and the law, free from personal interests or prior involvement. It also reinforces public confidence in the courts by demonstrating a commitment to impartiality and accountability.
As a judicial candidate, I would recuse myself when required by law or when I believe I cannot be fair and impartial. The mere appearance of bias, by itself, is not always sufficient to justify recusal. Judges have a duty to hear and decide cases unless there is a valid reason to step aside. I would recuse myself in cases involving a personal or financial interest, a close family member, prior involvement as counsel or official, or when specific circumstances would genuinely compromise my neutrality.
Equal justice under the law is a cornerstone of our democracy, and as a judge, I will work to make it a lived reality. That means treating every person with dignity and fairness, and ensuring court procedures are accessible—especially for those without legal representation. I will listen carefully, communicate clearly, and apply the law impartially. My background in both private practice and public service has shown me the value of consistency, transparency, and compassion. I will also support diversionary programs and problem-solving courts that address the root causes of justice involvement, making the system smarter and more equitable.
Education
Western New England University School of Law, J.D., 1987; University of Connecticut, B.A., 1983
Experience
Judge of the District Court of Bucks County
As the only Bucks County judicial candidate with actual judicial experience, I know there's no single quality that makes a good judge—it takes many. A judge must be fair, impartial, and independent—free from political influence or personal agendas. I’ve maintained independence throughout my career and never catered to political parties for personal gain. Experience matters: I’ve presided over thousands of cases as a judge and served 21 years as a Bucks County Prosecutor, handling the county’s most violent crimes. I’ve prosecuted more cases than all other candidates combined. I also have deep experience in family law and have issued and enforced PFAs to protect victims. A good judge is tough when needed, compassionate when appropriate, and connected to the community they serve. Public service has always been my mission. Judges must respect their role—to apply the law, not make it. I will never "legislate from the bench." Judges must treat everyone with dignity, patience, and respect.
Recusal should be the exception invoked only under the appropriate circumstances as it is a judge's duty to serve in a fair and impartial manner in all cases which have been brought before the bench. Rule 2.11 of the Pennsylvania Judicial Code outlines the circumstances under which a judge should recuse. Judges are required to follow this rule. To me, the circumstances can be divided into two categories. One is actual conflict. Does the judge have a fixed opinion or personal interest in the matter? Is a family member of the judge's involved in, or have an interest in, the matter? Did a party/witness/attorney make a financial contribution to the judge's election campaign which raises concerns about the judge's impartiality? Did the judge represent such an interest in prior practice? The second is a reasonably perceived conflict in that, with respect to the above, a judge should recuse "in any proceeding in which the judge’s impartiality might reasonably be questioned."
"Equal Justice Under Law" inscribed atop the U.S. Supreme Court must be more than a motto—it’s a judicial duty. At a recent forum, one candidate said he wants LESS access to courts. Such a view disqualifies him from judicial service. As both a prosecutor and judge, I’ve always ensured fairness for all parties and expanded access to justice. When same-sex marriage was legalized in PA in 2014, some judges refused to perform those ceremonies, denying our neighbors their abilities to exercise their constitutional rights. I did the opposite— I added hours to the court calendar (at no taxpayer cost) so ALL couples could exercise their rights to be married. One ceremony even drew local media coverage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JARqXt4qKZU
Education
Penn State University (2002-2006) - Bachelor of the Arts (Crime Law and Justice); Widener School of Law (2009-2012) -Juris Doctorate
Experience
Bucks County Assistant/Deputy District Attorney (2012-2021); Bucks County Assistant/Deputy County Solicitor (2021-2023); Attorney - Begley, Carlin & Mandio (2023-present)
The single most important quality in a judge is integrity. Without integrity, we can have no confidence in the judicial process. Judges need to have the courage to do what is right in a fair, unbiased way. A judge's integrity is comprised of a strong moral compass, an unwavering commitment to ethical directives, and a strong character. Decisions that are founded upon strong integrity and respect for the judicial process engender the necessary trust in the system. Throughout my career, I have had to make a lot of very hard decisions, particularly as it relates to child welfare. I pride myself on always trying to do the right thing, even when it’s difficult, and that’s exactly the kind of judge I intend to be. I will be a judge that the community can trust to be honest, fair and principled every single day.
My commitment to ensuring fairness and integrity in the judicial process could involve recusal under certain circumstances. I would recuse myself from any case where there is an inability for me to be fair and impartial.
If I had a personal conflict, such as if I or any close family members were a party, attorney, or witness involved in the case or had a personal interest in the outcome of the case, I would recuse myself.
Where there is an appearance of impropriety that could be reasonably questioned, I would disclose the potential conflict to the parties to weigh in.
My goal as a judge would be to maintain the integrity of the judicial system and the confidence that the community has in it. My commitment to fairness and ethics would guide every decision I make from the bench, including when it is appropriate to step aside.
I am proud to practice in Bucks County because of the many programs available to remove the barriers that prevent individuals from fully accessing their rights and participating in the court system. These barriers can be cultural, financial, intellectual, physical, or circumstantial. I intend to do my part in making constituents aware of resources such as Legal Aid, the Public Defender’s Office, A Woman’s Place, NOVA, the court certified translation providers, and the Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral and Information Service Marginal Referral Program, to name a few. I intend to ensure that every individual, represented by an attorney or not, —regardless of their background, income, language, or circumstance—has equal access to justice.
Education
Bachelors degree in Political Science from Lock Haven University Juris Doctorate from Widener (Harrisburg) School of Law
Experience
Experience in Criminal, Personal Injury, Family law and Civil Rights matters.
A judge, above all else, must be fair, empathetic, even handed, practical and decisive. The ability to be able to relate to litigants in front of them on a human level, is vital. It becomes all too easy for participants in court to morph into simple docket numbers. This takes the humanity out of the court room which is unfortunate. Life experience is nearly as important as legal experience to have a level of understanding when it comes to human issues, and practicality that is simply not taught in law school.
I would recuse myself from a case if I had previously represented one of the parties or victims in the case, if I had a familial or otherwise significant personal relation to any of the litigants or if the Judicial Code of Conduct otherwise requires recusal. I would do my best to carefully consider whether or not a recusal is proper, in an effort to discourage "judge shopping."
I would continue to advocate for basic legal forms to be readily available. Some matters can be handled by parties who may not otherwise be able to afford counsel and one of the most simple ways to effectuate that, is by having the relevant forms available to them. This not only benefits pro se litigants, but it also helps attorneys who are not regularly representing clients in Bucks county. Having forms available on an easy to find webpage makes it easier and more accessible for parties without attorneys. A robust law library is also critical for parties, including attorneys and pro se litigants. These resources help level the playing field and increase access to the Pennsylvania Court System.
Education
Temple University School of Law, Juris Doctorate, '91
Experience
34 Years in the Practice of Law in Bucks County. Managing Member of the Bucks County Law Firm Pizzo Rudolph, LLC. Chief Legal Counsel to Bensalem Township, Northampton Township, the Bucks County Technical School Authority, and the Bucks County Sheriff's Office.
I don't believe that there is just one quality that outweighs all others in order to be an effective and outstanding Judge. Impartiality, integrity, fairness, open-mindedness, compassion, patience, and, of course, an understanding of, and respect for, the rule of law, are all qualities that our community and our society should expect from those honored to be selected to serve as Judge. Furthermore, in our society today, civility is a quality that, sadly, seems to be disappearing from all facets of everyday life, and something that I will insist upon in my courtroom and chambers. To quote the Pennsylvania Code of Civility applicable to both Judges and attorneys: "Integrity and courtesy are indispensable to the practice of law and the orderly administration of justice by our courts." I couldn't agree more.
The Pennsylvania Code of Judicial Conduct, the Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct, and the Pennsylvania Code of Civility all establish standards and provide guidance both to Judges and attorneys in regard to many aspects of the practice of law and the administration of our court system. As impartiality and fairness are integral to the administration of justice, these aforementioned codes and rules of conduct are written, and implemented, to assure that conflicts of interest are avoided. In many cases, even an appearance of a conflict can be as problematic as an actual conflict. As an attorney, I follow the rules and codes of conduct of my profession, as well as my conscience, and I will continue to do so as a Judge, not just in determining whether it is necessary to recuse myself from hearing a particular matter, but in regard to the handling and disposition of all matters that might come before me.
We are fortunate in Bucks County that our Justice System has a County Recovery Court, a Wellness Court, and a Veterans Treatment Court, all of which offer access and specialized services for individuals involved in the justice system who have substance use issues and/or mental health disorders. The County's Accountability Program serves the needs of both victims and defendants by providing a localized alternative to the criminal justice system that takes place at the municipal level rather than in Doylestown. Bucks County today also has outstanding legal aid and pro bono legal service programs. As a Judge, I would, as permitted, continue to advocate for these programs, and others like them, that help to assure access to our Justice System.
Education
Duke University, BA in History, 1985-1989. Howard University School of Law, JD, 1993-1996.
Experience
Partner, Co-chair of Family Law Department, CURTIN & HEEFNER LLP - 9/2022 to present; THOMAS SMITH FIRM, P.C. , Owner - 10/2009 – 9/2022; County of Bucks, Dependency Conflict Counsel, 1/2021 to 2022; Penglase and Benson, Senior Associate, 10/2007 to 10/2009.
Judges should possess the qualities of compassion, empathy, integrity, temperament and knowledge. In Family Court, compassion is not just a virtue — it is a necessity. Families often arrive at the courthouse during moments of deep crisis and emotional turmoil. A judge must have the empathy to truly hear them, the patience to thoughtfully consider their circumstances, the temperament to remain calm and fair under pressure, and the wisdom to make decisions that protect the well-being of children and uphold the dignity of every individual. While a firm grasp of the law is essential, it is compassion that ensures justice is delivered with both fairness and humanity.
With over 20 years of experience in family law, I bring not only a breadth of legal knowledge, but also the empathy, temperament, and sound judgment that this vital role demand.
As someone who has practiced extensively in Bucks County Family Court, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply these cases impact families, children, and our community. That’s why I believe every person who walks into a courtroom deserves a fair, impartial, and compassionate judge.
Judges must uphold the highest ethical standards — and that includes recusing themselves from cases where there’s any conflict of interest, personal bias, financial interest or prior relationship with a client. I’ve lived those values in my practice, and I will carry them with me to the bench.
The values instilled upon me by my parents, the values I live by and the vision I have for our courts here in Bucks County is justice for all
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I believe that every person, no matter their background, income, or identity, deserves to be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect in the courtroom. That means standing up for equality, embracing diversity, and ensuring real inclusion—not just in principle, but in practice.
I know firsthand what it feels like to face challenges in a system that doesn’t always feel just. That personal experience drives me to be a judge who listens, who sees people as they are, and who is committed to making sure that freedom from bias isn’t an aspiration—it is the standard.
