Candidate: Justin D. Bodor

Court: Berks County Court of Common Pleas

Party: Democrat and Republican

The following has been edited lightly for length and style.

The Legal Intelligencer: Tell us about your background, where you went to law school, what firms you have practiced at, and areas of law you focus on.

Justin Bodor: I am a lifelong resident of Berks County. I was raised in Colebrookdale Township and graduated from Boyertown Area Senior High. I attended Albright College as a Eugene Shirk Scholar and graduated with honors. I graduated from the Penn State Dickinson School of Law. I started my career as an assistant public defender in Berks County before moving to Brennan & Associates. Since 2010, I have served as an assistant district attorney in Berks County. In addition to carrying a general caseload, I have specialized in handling major crash cases, and for over 10 years I represented the DA's Office in our county's drug treatment court program.

The Legal: What is one major thing about your career experience that most qualifies you for this position, and why?

Bodor: I am an experienced trial attorney. I am in court nearly every day, and I know how to do the job efficiently and effectively. As a prosecutor, I have to make tough decisions every day. I work hard to make the right decisions for the right reasons.

The Legal: What is the main reason Pennsylvania voters should pick you?

Bodor: I was raised in a working class family that preached the notion of service over self. I have dedicated my professional career to public service, making the tough decisions to keep Berks County safe while being fair to all parties. I promise to treat everyone who comes into my courtroom with dignity and respect, and I promise I'll never forget where I came from.

The Legal: What will be your approach to moving matters efficiently through the case management system? 

Bodor: First and foremost, I will make it a priority to be on the bench as much as possible. I will be on time and focus on efficient administration of justice. I will always be prepared, and I will demand that parties who appear before me are as well. I will make decisions and rulings in a timely fashion.

The Legal: What would you say to voters regarding your plans to ensure the equal administration of justice for all people?

Bodor: I recognize that the integrity of our entire judicial system rests on the notion that no person is above the law, and every person is entitled to the protections of the law. Having been a former president of the Berks County Bar Association, I know how important it is for the bench and the bar to collaborate to strengthen our judicial system and to make sure everyone in our community has access to competent legal representation.

The Legal: Where can voters go for more information about you?

Bodor: Www.bodorforberks.com. On Facebook at Justin Bodor for Berks County, or Twitter @bodorforberks.