The Association uses a four-level rating system of Outstanding, Well Qualified, Qualified, and Not Recommended. Ratings are done annually prior to fall elections to assist the public in making informed decisions as they vote for judicial candidates. Judiciary Committee is nonpartisan.

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 the comprehensive rating process. Interviews with lawyers and judges who have had interaction with the candidates are also considered in determining the rating for judicial office. Please visit eriebar.org for further information.

The Bar Association of Erie County has been rating candidates for judicial office since 1993. With more than 3,000 members, the not-for-profit professional association was founded in 1887 to advance the administration of justice through programs and services for the legal profession and the public.