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PENNSYLVANIA BAR ASSOCIATION JUDICIAL EVALUATION COMMISSION 2013 SUPERIOR COURT CANDIDATE RATINGS

RATINGS OF RETENTION CANDIDATES

Judge Susan Peikes Gantman
Rating: Recommended for Retention

The Candidate has served as a judge of the Superior Court since 2004. She is recognized as possessing exemplary knowledge of legal principles and procedures and is scholarly and energetic. She demonstrates sound judgment and possesses the requisite judicial temperament. Her opinions are clear, concise and thorough. The Candidate has demonstrated her devotion to improving the quality of justice by her frequent participation in continuing legal education programs and other educational areas. Her integrity and personal character are beyond reproach and she is held in high esteem by members of the legal profession who practice before her. Judge Gantman has clearly demonstrated all the qualities necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of an appellate judge, and the commission recommends her retention.

Read the Candidate's questionnaire.

Judge Jack A. Panella
Rating: Recommended for Retention

The Candidate has served on the Superior Court since 2004. In tandem with his duties as an appellate judge, the candidate has served as chair of the Judicial Conduct Board and has been an active member of the Commission for Justice Initiatives in Pennsylvania. In the latter role, as part of the commission's public outreach effort, he authored a report to the Supreme Court evaluating and suggesting changes to the information available to the public on the court's website. He has an excellent judicial temperament and a reputation for being a thoughtful and respected jurist. His written opinions are well-reasoned, clear and concise. He has been the recipient of numerous honors for his leadership and service to the legal community and to the public. Judge Panella has clearly demonstrated all the qualities necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of an appellate judge, and the commission recommends his retention.

Read the Candidate's questionnaire.

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.

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.

ARCHIVE OF ALL CANDIDATES EVALUTED BY THE COMMISSION