Judge John Ward
MAYVILLE – Chautauqua County’s top judge will be stepping down from the bench.
After serving the county for more nearly 40 years, Chautauqua County Supreme Court Judge John Ward has announced he will retire with the state on July 30. Ward’s current ten-year term doesn’t end until 2022, but state law does require all sitting judges to retire by age 70. Judge Ward is 67.
Ward has spent 22 years on the bench. Prior to that he spent 15 years as the county’s District Attorney.
His retirement comes early enough in the year so there is no need for a special election. The candidates will appear on the ballot as part of the general contest in November. No candidates have to officially announce their intention to run.
Visiting judges from Erie County are set to finish out this year’s court calendar.
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