In response to various media inquiries that have arisen since the recent passing of Magisterial District Judge Robert Halal of District Court 31-1-07 located in Whitehall, Pennsylvania there is a need to address the plans for the ongoing operations of the office. It should be noted that District Court 31-1-07 continues to be open to provide services to the public. Although there was a need to reschedule some Court hearings this week the office is open for the filing of new cases and the payment for fines and costs and all other related business. Those hearings that were continued will be rescheduled as soon as possible to avoid any inconvenience.
During the interim, while a vacancy exists, it is anticipated that Senior Magisterial District Judges will be assigned on a rotating basis to preside over hearings in District Court 31-1-07. Senior Magisterial District Judge Patricia Warmkessel will begin her assignment at the District Court on Monday, June 12, 2017.
Pending any appointment by the Governor to fill the current vacancy the next election will occur in accordance with the current election cycle which would be in 2019 to fill the vacancy in January, 2020.
Information provided by:
Kerry Turtzo, Court Administrator
Lehigh County Courthouse
