Tunkhannock, PA – After a distinguished career practicing law across the United States, Richard “Rick” Huffsmith is eyeing a judicial seat in his Wyoming County roots. Huffsmith has thrown his hat into the ring for a newly established position on the Court of Common Pleas, overseeing Wyoming and Sullivan counties. The addition of this seat was announced in December 2023 following the realization that there is a growing need for more judicial presence in the area.
Since 2013, Huffsmith has operated his law practice in Tunkhannock, handling a variety of legal issues ranging from civil to criminal law. His expertise spans several sectors including oil and gas, family law, and assault charge cases. Before settling in Tunkhannock, he sharpened his legal acumen in Dallas, Texas, primarily working with litigation cases for several top-tier firms servicing Fortune 500 companies.
A Temple University School of Law alumnus, Huffsmith embarked on his professional journey in 1982. He returned to Northeast Pennsylvania in 1994, serving as vice president and general counsel for Jewelcor Management & Consulting in Wilkes-Barre. His tenure there saw him managing complex litigation and commercial matters and leading several international projects.
Huffsmith believes his diverse background and deep community ties make him well-suited for a judicial role. Known for his commitment to fairness and objectivity, he is adamant about the importance of ensuring that court outcomes are perceived as equitable by all parties involved. “I aim to ensure that each individual feels they’ve been given a fair trial under the law,” Huffsmith stated, emphasizing his dedication to justice and community service.
In his campaign, the seasoned attorney has expressed intentions to appear on both the Democratic and Republican ballots, illustrating his appeal across the political spectrum. His decision makes him one of three candidates vying for the judicial appointment, alongside Paul Litwin and Nina Sordoni.
Well-known in the Tunkhannock community, Huffsmith has also contributed significantly to local education and commerce, having served on the Tunkhannock Area School Board and as a board member and advisor for the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce. His legal and community service credentials are complemented by his active participation in local organizations like the Wyoming County Rotary Club and the Wyoming County United Way.
Residing in Tunkhannock with his roots tracing back to Lackawanna Trail High School and Keystone Junior College, Huffsmith’s local upbringing and professional journey resonate deeply within the community. Having raised two children, Katherine and Stephen, he recently faced personal tragedy with the loss of his wife Lisa to cancer in 2021. Despite his personal loss, Huffsmith remains committed to serving the community that has shaped his life and career.
Huffsmith’s candidacy introduces a seasoned legal mind eager to continue his service at a higher judicial capacity. His broad legal experience combined with his intimate knowledge of the local community provides a solid foundation for his judicial aspirations. As the primary elections approach, the residents of Wyoming and Sullivan counties will decide if Huffsmith’s blend of professional distinction and local dedication is what they seek in their next judge.
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