This law outlines the procedures for establishing and electing community court judges in Pennsylvania, including nomination, election timing, and initial appointments. It also details how additional judges are added and the oath of office required for judicial officers. The provisions ensure a structured process for creating and staffing community courts within the state.
If approved by electors at a primary election, the first judges are elected during that municipal election, following the same nomination process as other judicial candidates.
The new judicial positions are considered vacancies effective from the statute's enactment and are filled according to the same procedures as other vacancies.
Judicial officers must swear or affirm to support and defend the U.S. and Pennsylvania constitutions and to faithfully discharge their duties before beginning their service.
Judges are elected by voters if the community court is established and approved, but initial judges may be nominated and elected during municipal elections as specified by law.