Magisterial District Judge 17-3-01
One of two magisterial courts in Union County, District 17-3-01 includes Lewisburg Borough and the Townships of East Buffalo, Kelly, and Union.Description of office: The minor courts, also called the special courts, are the first level of Pennsylvania s Unified Judicial System. There are 501 magisterial district judges based in community courts throughout the Commonwealth, with two judges in Union County. The Magisterial District Judge decides small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, traffic cases, minor criminal matters and civil suits, and conducts preliminary hearings in serious criminal cases. Magisterial District Judges must reside in their districts for a year preceding their election to office. Those who are not members of the PA Bar Association must complete a course of training and instruction in the duties of their office and pass an examination prior to assuming office. Once in office, all judges must take continuing legal education programs.Term: 6 yearsSalary: $113,713Vote for ONE.
Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.
-
Jeff Rowe
(Dem, Rep)
What personal qualities do you have that make you particularly suited to be a judge?
Township or Borough
Lewisburg
Education
Lewisburg Area High School; B.A., University of Delaware; J.D., University of Maryland School of Law
Occupation
Magisterial District Judge & Attorney
Qualifications
Magisterial District Judge, 2020-present; former assistant public defender; former assistant district attorney; past private practice included criminal defense, civil litigation, school law, social security claims, estate planning, Title IX investigations; former Mental Health Review Officer
I love to teach the law, which doesn't sound like it would be relevant until you consider that most people who have cases in front of me represent themselves and have little to no experience with the courts. They won't feel like they're getting a fair chance to be heard if they are stymied by substantive law or procedural rules, so I explain, as simply as I can, the basics to them before we begin with testimony, so they know what to expect and what issues to highlight. Over the last five years, I've found that this not only puts people at ease, but reduces the likelihood of antagonistic confrontation. To do this effectively, I need to exhibit patience, empathy, and honesty, all while ensuring order and civility amongst the parties.
To make a selection for a candidate you must first find your races. Would you like to find your races now?
You have already selected the maximum number of candidates for this race.
You must uncheck an existing selection before making another selection.