I am asking for your vote in the Primary Election on May 16, 2023 for Magisterial District 10-3-09 serving the Boroughs of Bolivar, Donegal, Laurel Mountain, Ligonier, Seward, New Florence and the Townships of Cook, Donegal, Fairfield, Ligonier and Saint Clair.
Establishing The Right Connections
As a candidate for District Magistrate Judge, I anticipate meeting many voters in advance of the May 16, 2023 primary election. For those of you that I will not meet personally, I offer this introduction in asking for your vote.
Personal Background
I was raised in Penn Hills and after graduating from high school, attended Duke University. Following college, I returned to Western Pennsylvania where I have lived and worked ever since. After receiving my law degree from The University of Pittsburgh, I began the practice of law. For the past 40 years, I have been a trial lawyer; focusing on the defense of civil cases in our local, state and federal courts. In addition, I have served as a solicitor to several municipalities in Westmoreland County and frequently serve as an independent mediator resolving disputes between parties.
For the past 35 years, I have maintained a home in the Ligonier Valley; in 2016 my family made Cook Township our permanent residence. Our son, Cody, recently graduated from Pitt-Greensburg. Our daughter, Taylor, is a graduate of Ligonier Valley High School and currently, a freshman at the University of Kentucky.
My Qualifications to Serve as District Magistrate Judge
I respectively submit that my extensive trial experience in the Courts of Pennsylvania is a unique qualification for the office of District Magistrate. Since beginning the practice of law in 1979, I have appeared before Pennsylvania’s local magistrates, all levels of the state court system and the federal courts in the Western, Middle and Eastern Districts of PA.
While that experience is invaluable, a high level of legal ability is, in my opinion, essential to the role of Magistrate Judge. In addition to my listing in The Best Lawyers in America, my recognitions include the prestigious AV Preeminent designation from Martindale-Hubbell, a rating designation reserved for those demonstrating the highest levels of legal ability and ethical standards.
In addition to experience and ability, the position of District Magistrate requires a dedication to the administration of justice in a manner that instills confidence in the legal system. A hardworking judge listens more than talks; demonstrates patience with all who appear before the court; treats all parties with respect and dignity; adheres to the rule of law; and, tempers fair decisions with compassion. I hope to have the opportunity to earn your respect if elected as your District Magistrate Judge.
Thank you for your consideration of my candidacy.
Sincerely,
The most common question I am asked is why am I running for District Magistrate.
I hope this video answers that question…
Mark is a lifelong Republican. So, why will you find his name on the Republican and Democrat ballots in May? For one, the election laws allow a judicial candidate to cross file. But more importantly: the position of Magistrate Judge demands equal justice for everyone, regardless of party registration. It is blind to political affiliation, gender, race or one’s place in society.
So, let’s save political debate for the dinner table and the campfire. The Courtroom is reserved for the unbiased pursuit of justice for all.
You can contact Mark by email.