MORGANTOWN — Monongalia County Circuit Court Judge Russell Clawges was named a senior status judge by the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia this week.
As a senior status judge, Clawges said he can be recalled by the Supreme Court to hear cases other judges have recused themselves from or to temporarily fill a judicial vacancy caused by illness, suspension or other reasons.
The 68-year-old judge is retiring from his seat, held for 22 years, on Jan. 31. His first temporary assignment will be continuing to serve until his replacement takes over. His senior status judge appointment takes effect Feb. 1.
In the administrative order appointing Clawges as a senior status judge, Chief Justice Elizabeth Walker cited Monongalia County’s heavy caseload and the prevention of delays in those cases as reasons for ordering Clawges to continue presiding until his successor is sworn in.
Clawges will also continue to administrate the Monongalia County Adult Drug Court Program.
Interviews for his replacement will be held Jan. 31, according to a press release by Gov. Jim Justice’s office.
Seven candidates applied for the position. They are:
- De’Andra N. Burton
- Peter Dinardi
- Krista Marinaro
- Cindy Scott
- Debra Scudiere
- Michael Simms
- Jennifer Tampoya
The interviews are not open to the public and will be conducted by the Judicial Vacancy Advisory Committee, according to Butch Antolini, director of communications for Justice.
After the interviews, the JVAC will give the governor two or three names for review. Antolini said Justice will then review the names and make an appointment.
There is a 20-day waiting period after an appointment is made where people can submit objections to the appointment before the nominee can take the bench.
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