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Seven candidates are on the ballot for four justice positions on the state Supreme Court Eighth Judicial District that serves the Western New York counties, including Chautauqua. State Supreme Courts hear civil matters while the County Courts hear criminal matters.
In making our selections for these positions, we consider ratings by the Erie County Bar Association to assist the public in the process. The Association notes candidates are evaluated on criteria necessary to hold judicial office, including integrity, experience, professional ability, education, reputation, industry, temperament, fairness, statutory standards, attitude, punctuality, and knowledge of the law.
In addition, candidates are asked to complete a written questionnaire and are also interviewed as part of a multi-faceted rating process. Interviews with lawyers and judges who have interacted with the candidates are also considered in determining the rating for judicial office.
Erie County, the largest populated in the region, has a strong say in determining the outcome.
Candidates include:
-- Robert N. Richardson, who is rated as well qualified, is endorsed by Democrats, Republicans and Conservatives.
-- Craig R. Bucki and Anne E. Joynt, who both received backing from the Democrat and Working Families Party and are rated as well qualified.
-- Hon. Deanne M. Tripi and Jonathan S. Hickey are endorsed by the Republican and Conservative parties. All are rated as well qualified.
-- Michael L. Amodeo, who is rated as qualified, is endorsed by the Democrats, Republicans and Working Families.
-- Conservative-endorsed Robert Vario, who was not listed in the Bar Association ratings, is not actively campaigning.
Our backings for the 14-year position are for Richardson, Bucki, Tripi and Hickey.
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Early voting continues today through Sunday. Hours are noon to 8 p.m. today and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday to Friday. Voting is taking place at the county fairgrounds in Dunkirk, the Board of Elections in Mayville, the Celoron Community Center and Robert H. Jackson Center in Jamestown.