If you are running for elected office in the State of Pennsylvania, you must understand the many rules and regulations facing a candidate. Candidates often mean well and have good intentions, but are ill prepared for the complicated steps it takes to get on a ballot, stay on the ballot, and successfully be elected. The rules and regulations—whether they be for your local town council, judge, councilperson, or state representative—are numerous and complicated.
How one must apply to become a candidate, the type and number of signatures for election petitions, and what to disclose are just some examples of the pitfalls tripping up individuals. Affidavits of financial responsibility and other disclosure forms are also vital parts of any candidate’s application. Experienced politicians often have election attorneys representing them in court to make sure that only qualified candidates are on the ballot. Keeping an unqualified candidate off the ballot is just one of many strategies of those running for office.
If you are considering running for office, you should consult an election attorney. R. Emmett Madden and ThePhillyLawyers have wide experience representing candidates from the United States Congress to Court of Common Pleas Judges, as well as council members, state representatives and district judges throughout the Delaware Valley. Our list of successful clients is long and impressive.
