Robert W. Stewart, of State College, announced last week that he will be a candidate for magisterial district judge.
A small business owner and former Pennsylvania State Constable, Stewart will seek election for district judge representing district 49-2-01, which includes Patton Township, Ferguson Township, Halfmoon Township and parts of College Township.
He has cross-filed to run on the Democratic and Republican ballots.
‘He plans to establish a Veteran’s Court for summary offenses; establish a mediation program for civil cases, designed to save time and money for litigants; and to continue the Youth Offenders Program/Youth Aid Panel for first time offenders who show a willingness to take responsibility for their actions,’ a news release announcing his candidacy said. ‘His approach is to offer a common sense practical application of the law.’
Stewart is a lifelong resident of Centre County and owner of Stewart Realty, a property management company. He said he twice previously was certified by Pennsylvania Supreme Court to serve as magisterial district judge.
‘Stewart’s life experiences have given him the opportunity to work with and help people from all walks of life, which he feels will help him to be a fair and compassionate District Judge,’ the release said.
He has been involved with State College Elks, PAWS, Children’s Miracle Network, Meals on Wheels, the Salvation Army, Coaches vs. Cancer and Centre County Camp Cadet. He and his wife, Jerilynn, have two children: a daughter who is a college student in South Carolina and a son who attends State College Area High School
Stewart is the twin brother of Bellefonte Borough Manager Ralph Stewart.
Former district judge Leslie Dutchcot vacated the seat Stewart is seeking in November 2015 to take a position with a private law firm. Senior Judge Ronald Horner was chosen by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts to temporarily fill the position until the next municipal election, which will be held this year. The primary election is May 16.
Stewart is the fourth candidate to publicly announce candidacy for the seat. Attorney and Penn State Law Veterans Clinic co-founder Justin Bish, Centre County assistant public defender Casey McClain, and retiring State College Police officer Dave White also have announced they would run.
