Peter Sala Runs for Erie County Court of Common Pleas

Candidate: Peter J. Sala

Court: Erie County

Party: Democrat and Republican

Erie County Bar Association: Highly recommended

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.

Peter Sala: I attended Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, where I graduated in 1994 and was the managing editor of the law review. I began my legal career as a law clerk for the Erie County Court of Common Pleas in May of 1994. I passed the Pennsylvania Bar Exam in July 1994. I then started my own practice in September 1995, where I have been ever since. I have successfully argued before every appellate court in Pennsylvania, including the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. I have represented clients in jury trials since 1996, with the last trial being a homicide trial in June, 2022. I am also in my 26th year serving as the Erie County Sheriff’s solicitor.

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

Sala: My dedication to the profession along with my research and writing ability. I have handled a wide variety of legal cases in the family law, civil law, criminal law, estates, real estate and municipal arenas. On July 21, 2020, the seminal case of Commonwealth v. McClelland was decided by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. The decision changed the evidentiary standard applied at preliminary hearings for every criminal case in Pennsylvania by prohibiting the use of only hearsay evidence to sustain the prima facie standard. I spent almost five years working on the case in the pursuit of Justice for all Pennsylvanians.

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

Sala: I am the only candidate to be “Highly Recommended” by the Erie County Bar Association.

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

Sala: Cases in Erie County are assigned by our court administrator. I will give each case the time and attention necessary to arrive at the proper decision. If that means working late, I will take the extra time, as that is what I have done my whole career.

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

Sala: I have represented well over 1,000 clients in my career. I have treated each with the understanding and compassion they deserve. Voters can be assured that I will serve them the same way when hearing their cases.

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

Sala: Voters can go to www.SalaforJudge.com for more information.