Pat Broscius to Seek Magisterial District Judgeship in Bethlehem Township

Although I like to call them mini-judges, magisterial district judges are the frontline of Pennsylvania's judicial system. They handle the majority of cases considered, from neighbor squabbles to a disputed parking ticket. Former Chief Justice Ralph Cappy called them "the bulwark between the police and rights of citizens." Since 2001, Joe Barner has served in that capacity from his tiny courtroom at the Trolley Station Mall. Under a recent court reorganization, his jurisdiction will soon be limited to cases in Bethlehem Township. But he won't be there. Though his term of office extends until 2017, Judge Barner intends to retire at the end of this year.

Assistant District Attorney Patricia C. Broscius, the Chief Prosecutor of the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit and a veteran prosecutor for nearly two decades, has announced her intention to seek that position.

"A fair and efficient bench is of the utmost importance to me," she stated in her announcement. She has vast experience in both categories. She has tried over 100 cases as a prosecutor, and knows the importance of fairness, as well as the need for judicial economy.

She also knows what it is like to be a woman in what was once a man's world. She is the first female to ever be hired as a full-time prosecutor in Northampton County, as hard as that may be to believe. She has dedicated her career asa a prosecutor to protecting children, bringing sexually violent predators to justice and selflessly serving the citizens of Northampton County.

Over the years, you may have seen Pat after work, running in one of the parks, often accompanied by her children. I used to bump into her on occasion, back in my running days. "I have met many Bethlehem Township residents who have been so kind and supportive of my career as a prosecutor ands the work I do for children," she admitted.

Broscius is a lifelong resident of Northampton County. She grew up in Palmer Township, and attended Northampton Community College and DeSales University. She was awarded her law degree from the Widener University School of Law in 1990, and went right to work.

She was married to Attorney John Rybak, who unfortunately passed away before his time in January. She is the mother of thee great children - Daniel, Claire and Joseph.

Two other assistant DAs, Bill Blake and Sandra McClure, are reportedly interested as well.

Bryan Altieri, husband of two-time State Rep. candidate Leslie Altieri, announced his candidacy on Facebook.