Michael Stine to retire from Schuylkill County judgeship

October 21, 2010

Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania: Judge D. Michael Stine of the Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas in Pennsylvania, has announced his retirement. A judge of this court since June of 1990, the 63-year-old will step down from the bench on January 3, 2011. Regarding his reason for leaving, he cited the desire to pursue other interests while he was still able. He plans to continue to hear cases as a senior judge.

Prior to joining the County Court, Stine served as a magisterial district justice (simply called a "district justice" at the time) and as an assistant district attorney. He was appointed to his current position on the court in 1990 to replace the retiring Judge John E. Lavelle. Regarding his career, Stine said, "Few people are given the opportunity to be involved in such a stimulating, challenging and energetic career field."

Judge Stine is highly regarded by those who have worked with him over the years. Fellow judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin commented, "We are losing one of the best judges that Schuylkill County ever had." Judge Jacqueline L. Russell said, "Judge Stine is a very conscientious, hard-working, pleasant individual who I and the other members of the court will sorely miss."

To fill the judicial vacancy, the Schuylkill County Bar Association members will send a list of three nominees to the Governor, who will choose the new judge. This judge will then be required to run for re-election in November of 2011.