Jim Smith, an attorney from Fleetwood, announced his candidacy for Berks County Court of Common Pleas Judge last Saturday.
Berks * Fire * Water Restorations, Inc. in Muhlenberg Township hosted the event and saw about 200 campaign supporters and volunteers gather to hear Jim’s announcement. Jim Smith spoke about his experience in the law that began 16 years ago as a Berks County prosecutor. Nearly ten years ago, Jim opened his own firm which has grown to become the Smith Law Group now located on Route 222 in Richmond Township.
“At my firm (Smith Law Group) we’ve adopted a phrase, the pursuit of Justice, guided by Truth. The simple fact is, you can’t have one without the other.”
“Justice without Truth really isn’t Justice.”
Jim suggested that to expect justice, Berks County voters need a judge that has demonstrated a life of integrity, hard work, common sense and a willingness to put himself second to something greater, like the law.
Lisa Lavender, COO of Berks * Fire * Water Restorations, Inc. welcomed everyone and noted how close Jim was to winning just two years ago.
State House Representative Jim Cox spoke about the importance of electing leaders who will stand up for what is right, no matter the cost. Cox shared, “Jim practices law in a way that is right for the people. He defends the laws that are enacted.” Representative Ryan Mackenzie was also there supporting Jim.
David Crossett, who practices law with Jim, spoke about Jim’s work ethic and love for the law. Speakers also included Pastor Joe Sclafani, who talked about how Jim fought to keep City Light Ministries open. He said, “Last night we had over 40 men and women stay at City Light, instead of on the freezing cold streets. That’s thanks to Jim Smith.”
Supporters enjoyed pulled pork barbecue sandwiches, face painting and a special live music appearance by Acoustic Roadshow host, Butch Imhoff.
Jim Smith first ran for the position in 2013 falling short by only 230 votes out of over 30,000 votes cast. If the energy in the room was any indication, he can expect much better results in 2015. The rules concerning judicial races will allow Jim Smith and other candidates to run on both the Republican and Democrat nomination ballots in the Primary Election scheduled for Tuesday, May 19th.
