NORWICH – District Attorney Joseph A. McBride announced his candidacy for Chenango County Judge at a gathering of his supporters Thursday afternoon in downtown Norwich.
Speaking to the crowd from the steps of the Chenango County Courthouse, McBride cited his extensive legal experience as his most compelling qualification for the post. “I have participated in over 65 jury trials over the past 28 years,” he said, “and have been involved in almost every major criminal trial in Chenango County in the last 20 years.”
Chenango is one of 38 counties in New York in which one judge presides over three distinct courts: Surrogate’s Court, which oversees the probate of wills; Family Court, which resolves issues including custody, support, visitation, abuse and neglect; and County Court, where felony criminal trials are conducted. “While all these matters are significant because of their nature, the position of County Court Judge requires the experience and knowledge to make immediate decisions that are required throughout both jury and non-jury trials. I strongly believe I have this experience and knowledge,” McBride said, adding that more than half of the court’s calendar is devoted to criminal matters.
The County, Surrogate and Family Court judge position has been held for the last 12 years by the Hon. W. Howard Sullivan, who will be retiring at the end of 2012. McBride, a Republican, is the second candidate to announce his interest in the position. Norwich attorney Frank Revoir, also a Republican, announced his candidacy Monday. The contest will necessitate a GOP primary for the Republican spot on November’s ballot, although the time frame for that primary has not yet been set by the state, according to the county’s Republican Party chairman, Tom Morrone.
After earning his J.D. degree from the SUNY Buffalo Law School in 1983, McBride began his legal career as a defense attorney with the New York City Legal Aid Society, with admission to the New York Bar in 1984. He continued to broaden his experience as a trial lawyer in Phoenix, Ariz., with two years at the Maricopa County public defender’s office.
In 1990, McBride returned east and settled in Norwich, establishing a private law practice which included experience in Family Court, criminal defense work, and the rare opportunity to try and win a contested case in Surrogate’s Court. He also served as Norwich City Attorney in 1999.
McBride was elected Chenango County District Attorney in 1999, and in 2004 discontinued private practice to focus exclusively on criminal prosecutions. Since becoming DA, he has prosecuted more than1,500 felonies, with a felony conviction rate of nearly 99 percent for the year 2011.
After McBride and his wife Lou Ann committed to raising their two sons in Chenango County, he began his involvement as board member, officer or volunteer for a long list of community organizations, including Hospice of Chenango County; the Northeast Classic Car Museum; the Chenango Foundation; Commerce Chenango and the Norwich Little League. He was also an adjunct professor at SUNY Morrisville. Presently, McBride serves on the Norwich City School Board; the Chenango County Traffic Safety Committee; and the Multidisciplinary Task Force for the Benefit of Abused and Victimized Children. He is also a member of Saint Paul’s Church and the Knights of Columbus.
“In closing,” McBride said during his speech before approximately 60 supporters yesterday, “I feel my extensive experience, integrity and commitment to our community make me the best candidate for Chenango County Court Judge. I would be honored to continue to serve the people of Chenango County in this capacity.”