Jan 28, 2011 By Christine Haines 2 min read

Washington County master and hearing officer Gary Gilman has announced that he is seeking both the Democratic and Republican nominations for Common Pleas Court judge.

Gilman has been an attorney for 23 years, serving as a master and hearing officer for Common Pleas Court for the past 11 years.

“The majority of my career has been spent in public service. I enjoy public service and find it really fulfilling,” Gilman said. “I can have a greater impact on more people.”

The newest judge on the Washington County bench is usually assigned to family court. Gilman pointed out that in his current job he hears difficult divorce, support and alimony cases.

“I’m already hearing those types of cases and have my own courtroom,” Gilman said.

The current vacancy on the Washington County bench is due to the death last year of Judge Mark Mascara.

“Judge Mascara really did a great job focusing on family court and family law,” Gilman said. “I’d really like to build on the legacy he left behind.”

Gilman said family law takes up more court resources than any other branch of law.

“Most people, no matter what their socio-economic background, have no involvement in the court system, except in a family matter. It can’t take a back seat to any of the other divisions,” Gilman said. “Family is the backbone of America. Unfortunately, about half of all families have been touched by divorce.”

Gilman said he would also be comfortable presiding over civil and criminal trials, having handled both when he was in private practice.

“You have to make thorough yet swift decisions,” Gilman said.

Gilman began his legal career as a law clerk for Judge Thomas Terputac in 1987. He resides in North Strabane Township with his wife, Judge Kathy Emery, and son George.