ORWIGSBURG — Attorney Lora J. McDonald has announced her candidacy for magisterial district judge in District Court 21-3-03, serving Orwigsburg and surrounding communities, in the 2027 election.
McDonald, an Orwigsburg resident with more than 30 years of legal experience, cited her work in private practice, public defense and courtroom litigation as preparation for the position.
“After more than 30 years of practicing law in Schuylkill County, I believe my experience, knowledge, and dedication to public service have prepared me for the responsibility of serving as Magisterial District Judge,” McDonald said in her announcement.
Legal Experience and Education
Her legal practice has included criminal defense, family law, custody, child support, estates, guardianships, real estate and personal injury matters.
“Throughout my career, I have represented individuals and families from all walks of life. My experience in private practice, as an Assistant Public Defender, and in the courtroom has given me a strong understanding of the law and the importance of treating every individual with fairness, dignity, and respect,” she said.
A 1986 honors graduate of Nativity BVM High School, McDonald earned a Bachelor of Arts in Politics from DeSales University in 1990, graduating summa cum laude. She received her Juris Doctor from Penn State Dickinson Law in 1993.
McDonald began working as a law clerk with Rubright, Domalakes, Troy & Miller in 1992 while attending law school. After graduation, she returned to Schuylkill County to practice law and became a partner in 2003 at the firm now known as Rubright, Domalakes, Troy & McDonald.
According to her announcement, McDonald has also served as an Assistant Public Defender for Schuylkill County and previously served as solicitor for the Schuylkill County Treasurer’s Office. Her experience includes representing clients at hearings and trials, serving on arbitration panels and accepting court appointments involving guardianships and other proceedings.
Teaching and Community Involvement
McDonald has taught criminal justice as an adjunct professor at Penn State Schuylkill and instructed students in paralegal and criminal justice studies at McCann School of Business & Technology.
A past president of the Schuylkill County Bar Association, she has provided pro bono legal services, coached mock trial students at Blue Mountain High School, served on the board of St. Joseph Center for Special Learning and volunteered through St. Ambrose Parish.
McDonald and her family also helped establish the Purple Ribbon Epilepsy Project, which promotes epilepsy awareness and supports research.
She resides in Orwigsburg with her husband, Rob, and their children, Riley and Bo.
“Schuylkill County has always been my home. It is where I was raised, built my career, and raised my family. Giving back to this community has always been important to me, both professionally and personally,” McDonald said.
2027 District Judge Campaign
McDonald said she plans to meet with residents throughout the district as the 2027 election approaches.
“I am seeking this position because I believe our community deserves a judge who is knowledgeable, experienced, approachable, and committed to upholding the law with integrity and impartiality,” she said.
“As a judge, my responsibility would be to uphold the law, listen carefully, consider the facts, and ensure that every individual appearing before the court is treated fairly and respectfully,” McDonald added.