RATINGS OF CANDIDATES FOR ONE VACANCY

Judge John T. McVay Jr.
Rating: Recommended

The Candidate has served as a judge on the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas since 2007, where he has been assigned to the Family Division. His caseload consists of juvenile dependency, delinquency and adult cases. The Candidate previously served in Allegheny County as assistant county solicitor, counsel for the Housing Authority and assistant Pittsburgh city solicitor, while maintaining a part-time law practice. He is regarded as having outstanding legal ability in his current position. He is recognized for his diligence, excellent temperament and willingness to employ unique solutions in matters that come before him. While the Candidate has limited experience before the appellate courts, the Commission found that he has the legal ability, experience, integrity and judicial temperament to perform satisfactorily on the Superior Court and recommends his candidacy.

Read the Candidate's questionnaire.

Judge Edward G. Smith, Northampton County
Rating: Highly Recommended

The Candidate has served on the Court of Common Pleas in Northampton County since 2002, handling both civil and criminal matters. He also presides over the Asbestos Division and is the supervisory judge of the grand jury. He is a 27-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, holding the rank of captain. He has served two tours as a military trial judge and has previously served as a military appellate judge. He served a combat tour in Iraq, earning the coveted Bronze Star for his legal skills in aiding the development of the Iraqi court system and a fair system for handling Iraqi detainees. From 1990 until his election to the bench, the Candidate was a partner in a law firm in Easton, where he had a general civil practice. Colleagues and lawyers describe the Candidate as patient, thoughtful and fair. In the courtroom, he has earned a reputation for being thorough, orderly and efficient. His written opinions are cogent and well-reasoned. Based on his exemplary military and judicial record as well as his commitment to community service, the commission believes that the Candidate possesses the legal ability and demeanor to serve with distinction on the Superior Court and highly recommends his candidacy.

Read the Candidate's questionnaire.

Victor P. Stabile, Dauphin County
Rating: Recommended

The Candidate has excelled in his career as a civil litigator. He is the managing partner of his law firm's Harrisburg office. He previously served as a clerk for a Commonwealth Court judge and worked as a litigator in the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. The Candidate has strong writing skills, administrative ability and experience in handling cases in the appellate courts. He is held in high regard by his peers, who have noted his intellect, strong work ethic and integrity. He also serves as a township supervisor and has an exemplary record of pro bono and community service. Based on his experience and his intellect, as well as his passion for the law and public service, the commission recommends the Candidate for a position on the Superior Court.

Read the Candidate's questionnaire.

Joseph C. Waters Jr., Philadelphia County
Rating: Recommended

The Candidate has served as a Philadelphia Municipal Court judge since 2009. He previously worked for the Philadelphia Police Department for 21 years and as a lawyer in private practice, representing clients primarily in bankruptcy, family law and criminal defense matters. His law enforcement background has served him well as a municipal court judge, however, his experience before the Superior Court is limited. The commission found the Candidate has adequate writing and analytical skills and believes the Candidate would be able to perform satisfactorily as a judge on the Superior Court.

Read the Candidate's questionnaire.