WEST PITTSTON — There will be a new district judge in town.
And the last name will be the same.
Matthew Carmody on Tuesday night secured a decisive victory for the magisterial district judge race to represent communities in the Wyoming Area.
Carmody, a local attorney, defeated Laura Dennis in the race for district judge in the Wyoming Area, which comprises Exeter, Exeter Twp., West Pittston, West Wyoming, and Wyoming with the current office located in the West Pittston Municipal Building.
The position, which is a six-year term, pays $113,713 in 2025.
According to unofficial results, Carmody received 3,334 votes and Dennis got 2,657 votes, or 55% to 44%.
“I’m humbled and thankful to the voters who supported us on our campaign,” Carmody said. “I want to recognize my father, District Judge Joe Carmody. I always said whoever won was going to have big shoes to fill. I was blessed to have him as a mentor.”
Carmody said he had a good chat with his opponent.
“I just have to commend her for running an excellent campaign. I have the utmost respect for her and anyone who decides to go through this process,” Carmody said.
Dennis also had kind words to say about her opponent.
“I’m very proud of my campaign and being the first woman ever on a general election ballot in our district for magistrate,” Dennis said. “I want to congratulate Matt and wish him all the best as he prepares to be our new magistrate.”
Carmody, 43, is founding partner of the law firm Joyce, Carmody & Moran, P.C. He currently serves as Lackawanna County’s chief labor counsel and as the assistant solicitor to the Luzerne County Transportation Authority He also served as court-appointed counsel in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania representing indigent federal clients.
Carmody said he will maintain a private law practice while being a full-time judge.
“I’m going to give it full attention, but I will maintain a private law practice that will conform with the duties and responsibilities of a district judge,” Carmody said.