The Minority Bar Association of WNY rates 2026 Judicial Candidates
The Minority Bar Association of Western New York (MBAWNY) has completed our 2026 judicial ratings of candidates for Buffalo City Court, Collins Town Justice, and the New York State Supreme Court. The annual ratings are performed to provide voters with nonpartisan information on candidates running for judicial offices.
Using questionnaires and interviews, candidates were evaluated based on criteria deemed vital to hold judicial office: on their attitude, commitment, education, experience, fairness, industry, integrity, professional ability, punctuality, reputation, sensitivity, statutory standards, and temperament. Each candidate was then ranked as either: Superior; Well Qualified; Qualified; Qualified but Limited by Experience; or Cannot Recommend.
The rating system used by the Minority Bar Association of WNY’s Judiciary Committee, although similar to that of other local bar associations, is unique in that it focuses on representing minority voices and perspectives. The committee only rates those candidates who have requested a rating from the committee.
The 2026 Judicial Ratings of candidates, which have been certified by the MBAWNY’s Executive Board, are as follows:
NEW YORK STATE SUPREME COURT (EIGHTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT)
Craig R. Bucki is a partner attorney at Phillips Lytle LLP
Rating: WELL QUALIFIED
Jonathan S. Hickey is a Town Justice in the Town of Clarence, NY, and a confidential law clerk for New York State Supreme Court
Rating: WELL QUALIFIED
Anne E. Joynt is a partner attorney at Lipsitz, Ponterio & Comerford, LLC
Rating: SUPERIOR
Robert Richardson is a confidential law clerk for the New York State Supreme Court
Rating: WELL QUALIFIED
Deanne M. Tripi is an Erie County Family Court Judge
Rating: QUALIFIED
BUFFALO CITY COURT
Michael J. Pacifico is a sitting Buffalo City Court Judge
Rating: WELL QUALIFIED
COLLINS TOWN JUSTICE
Sylvia Lynne Jock is a Peacemaker Court Judge for the Seneca Nation of Indians
Rating: WELL QUALIFIED