Judge Patrick Dugan Runs for Pennsylvania Superior Court

Candidate: Judge Patrick Dugan

Court: Superior

Party: Democrat

Pennsylvania Bar Association Rating: Not rated

The following has been edited lightly for length and style.

The Legal Intelligencer: Tell us about your background, where you went to law school, what firms you have practiced at, and areas of law you focus on.

Judge Patrick Dugan: Following my graduation from St. Joseph’s Prep, I served as an airborne infantryman in the Army with the 82nd Airborne Division, the 2nd Infantry Division in South Korea and the 1/508th [1st Battalion, 508th Infantry] in Panama. After the Army, I used my GI Bill to finish college and attend Rutgers Law School. I was admitted to the bar in 1994 and began work as a solo practitioner representing individuals and small businesses. In 2000, I went to work as an attorney for Philadelphia City Council advising on legislation and helping solve problems for constituents. My civilian legal career was interrupted by two voluntary deployments overseas with the United States Army to Iraq and Afghanistan. I was awarded the Bronze Star for my service in Iraq. In 2005, I was commissioned an Army JAG officer. Since 2007, I have served as a judge on Philadelphia Municipal Court where I started a nationally acclaimed Veterans Court in 2010. I currently serve as the president judge.

The Legal: What is one major thing about your career experience that most qualifies you for this position, and why?

Dugan: I have served and represented individuals and businesses, worked for a legislative body and currently serve as a trial court judge. I think these experiences combined with a variety of life experiences including growing up in the city and serving in the Army in multiple theaters give me the experience and judgement to be an appellate court judge.

The Legal: What is the main reason Pennsylvania voters should pick you?

Dugan: I will be fair to all parties, work hard and maintain the integrity of the court.

The Legal: What will be your approach to moving matters efficiently through the case management system? 

Dugan: Show up on time, work a full day and abhor a backlog.

The Legal: What would you say to voters regarding your plans to ensure the equal administration of justice for all people?

Dugan: I think my life experience and my work on the bench demonstrate a commitment to equal justice. Whether it was leading a diverse group of soldiers in the military, advocating for refugees from Iraq and Afghanistan, opening and presiding over a court in prison during COVID or ensuring veterans have access to care and treatment, I have always worked to ensure that everyone regardless of race, religion or gender gets a fair shake.

The Legal: Where can voters go for more information about you?

Dugan: www.judgepatdugan.com