Candidate for
Judge; Magisterial District Court; District 5-2-20; Democratic, Republican Party

My name is Bill Evans and I am running for Magisterial District Judge to serve Bethel Park and Upper St. Clair.   I graduated from Duquesne University School of Law, (Evening Division), and have been practicing law in Allegheny County for more than twenty years.

More people come into contact with Magisterial District Judges, also known as Magistrates, than with any other part of the judiciary because the Magistrate Court is Pennsylvania's court of "first instance". Minor traffic offenses and other summary offenses are decided in the magistrate court. In criminal cases, Magistrates conduct the preliminary hearing during which the Magistrate must determine if the government has presented sufficient evidence to hold a defendant for trial in the Court of Common Pleas. In civil cases, including landlord and tenant disputes, Magistrates also have jurisdiction over monetary claims up to $12,000. Cases before the magistrates are presented in a limited amount of time and the magistrate must analyze the evidence, apply the law and render an impartial decision.

When my wife, Celia, (who grew up in Bethel Park) and I returned to Pittsburgh after attending college, we specifically chose to reside in the Bethel Park-Upper St. Clair area because of the community feel, the safety of the neighborhoods and the wonderful school system.  Celia operates her own vocational consulting business and is a former President of the USC Parent teachers Organization.   We are the proud parents of two children both of whom currently attend Penn State University. Alexandra is a junior majoring in biology and invertebrate physiology and Zac is currently a freshman considering a major in math or psychology.

After graduating from law school, I practiced for 10 years as a civil litigator in Pittsburgh. During the next ten years, I worked as the Assistant General Counsel with Union Switch & Signal Inc. and then Senior Counsel with Bombardier Transportation in West Mifflin. In 2009, I opened my own solo practice focusing on the representation of individuals and small businesses in both criminal and civil matters. My current practice focuses on assisting individuals and small businesses with legal issues that arise in everyday life and Interactions between individuals, neighbors, businesses and governmental entities.

Throughout my life I have always been personally and professionally dedicated to both Community and Public Service. I have worked with and for the following organizations: Allegheny County District Attorney's Office, Upper St Clair Cable Review Board, Upper St Clair Athletics coaching football, baseball and softball, Upper St Clair YMCA, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), South Hills Interfaith Ministry (SHIM), Allegheny County Indigent Divorce Program, Allegheny County Neighborhood Legal Services, and The Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank.

Encouraged by family, friends and neighbors, I am seeking your vote for Magisterial District Judge within our community. My pledge to you is simple:  As your magisterial district justice, I promise to be honest, open, impartial and fair to all who bring matters before the court.

My experiences and legal training will enable me to be an efficient and effective magistrate for the citizens of Bethel Park and Upper St. Clair. As a candidate for the Bethel Park/ Upper St Clair District Magistrate, I would appreciate your support.