MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — After more than 25 years of service in Morgantown, Municipal Court Judge Stephen G. Higgins has announced his decision to retire at the end of the year.
“It has been an honor to serve this city and its citizens,” said Higgins in a letter provided to city leadership. “I have always endeavored to be fair in all cases to all that came before me, and I am proud of the work that my staff and I accomplished for the city in my time as judge.”
The Municipal Court has jurisdiction over traffic offenses, misdemeanors (including first offense DUI), and citations from the Morgantown Police Department, Morgantown Parking Authority, building code officials and fire marshal officials.
“Judge Higgins has always demonstrated professionalism on the bench,” said Municipal Court Clerk Kat Friend. “He has always been fair in his rulings and treated every individual that has come before him with the utmost respect in all layers of society. The city is losing a valuable asset, and his presence will surely be missed.”
The Municipal Judge also presides over criminal violations of city code, with penalties limited to a maximum of 30 days imprisonment or a fine of up to $500.
The court operates under Article 181 of Morgantown’s city code. Sessions are Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons, one Wednesday morning each month, and twice-monthly evening court sessions. Each court session typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, but some can extend for longer periods of time.
City officials said a West Virginia-licensed attorney is preferred, but candidates who believe they can satisfy the requirements set out in W. Va. Code § 8-10-2 are welcome to apply.
Municipal Court Judge position details include:
– Minimum Qualifications: West Virginia licensed attorney or completion of municipal judge training after selection
– Start Date: January 1, 2025, or as soon thereafter as the position can be filled
– Compensation: Hourly rate to be determined based on experience
Interested candidates should apply online.