Attorney runs for Clearfield judge

Maines
Josh Maines recently announced his candidacy for judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Clearfield County.
Maines, an attorney, said he chose to enter the race because he believes he has the experience, character and passion for fairness and justice that the position demands. The decision wasn’t made as a career choice or quest for power, as Maines said he has earned the respect of his peers and gained a lot of experience throughout his time in his field.
Maines previously served as Assistant District Attorney for Clearfield County for five and a half years, successfully prosecuting matters in jury trials, as well as in state and federal appeals. His time in the courtroom in that capacity led to positive relationships with law enforcement, which carried over into his private practice.
As a private attorney, Maines practiced in many areas of law, including criminal defense, protecting landowners in real estate matters, negotiating energy leases, family law, estates, estate planning and litigation in a variety of civil matters. His work has expanded from Clearfield County through practice before the Court of Common Pleas in 26 counties.
Maines said he believes all these experiences will help him adjust well to the position of judge, should he be elected.
Over the course of his years in private practice, he was named “Best Criminal Attorney” by Best of Tri-County and “Best Criminal Defense Lawyer” in The Progress Readers’ Choice Awards. Beyond the practice of law, Maines has served on the Pennsylvania State Law Enforcement Advisory Commission. Working with a group of commissioners from across the state, he assisted in reviewing policy and making recommendations to improve both the safety of law enforcement officers and the public.
Maines is also a member of the Clearfield County, Centre County and Pennsylvania Bar Associations. He has served as music director and worship leader at Gethsemane United Methodist for the last 14 years and has participated in many community and charity events, including overdose awareness, domestic violence awareness and cancer benefit events. He is the father of five children: Dominic, Angelo, Nicolette, Santana and Sophi; and husband to wife, Nikki.
If he is elected to the office, Maines said he promises to bring justice, fairness and respect for the rule of law to every matter that comes before him.