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Bar Association of Erie County Issues Ratings for Judicial Candidates
July 14, 2026 – The Bar Association of Erie County has completed its 2026 rating of judicial candidates for New York State Supreme Court. Ratings are done annually to assist the public in making informed voting decisions.
The 2026 ratings are as follows:
New York State Supreme Court
Michael L. Amodeo – Qualified
Jonathan S. Hickey – Well Qualified
Anne E. Joynt – Well Qualified
Christopher M. Pannozzo – Qualified
Robert Richardson – Well Qualified
Hon. Kenneth A. Szyszkowski – Well Qualified
Hon. Deanne M. Tripi – Well Qualified
Peter P. Vasilion – Qualified
The Association uses a four-level rating system of Outstanding, Well Qualified, Qualified, and Not Recommended.
The Judiciary Committee is nonpartisan.
Ratings are done by a committee of 29 lawyers, with no more than 14 from a single political party. At least 9 new lawyers join the Committee each year. No member of the Committee may seek election to judicial office or publicly endorse or oppose any candidate for judicial office. A similar prohibition applies to BAEC Board Directors.
Criteria and Process are Comprehensive.
Judicial candidates are evaluated on criteria necessary to hold judicial office, including integrity, experience, professional ability, education, reputation, industry, temperament, fairness, statutory standards, attitude, punctuality, and knowledge of the law. Judicial candidates are asked to complete a written questionnaire and are also interviewed as part of a multi-faceted rating process. Interviews with lawyers and judges who have interacted with the candidates are also considered in determining the rating for judicial office. Please visit eriebar.org for further information.
ABOUT THE BAR ASSOCIATION OF ERIE COUNTY
The Bar Association of Erie County (“BAEC” or “Association”), a not-for-profit professional association, was founded in 1887. The Association serves its members by educating, pursuing justice, and fostering camaraderie, well-being, and belonging. The Association is a trusted voice and partner in the community, advocates for professional well-being and inclusion, and provides lawyers with the skills and tools to achieve excellence in the practice of law and pursuit of justice.
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