MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PA — A longtime district judge in Montgomery County and well known and respected member of the larger judicial community is hanging up her gavel.
District Justice Patricia Zaffarano is retiring after 36 years of service to the Ambler area.
“I always wanted to be an attorney and work within the criminal justice system. I’m sure my Dad’s 34 years as a police officer here in Upper Dublin had an impact on my decision,” Zaffarano told Patch back in 2011. “My experience as a prosecutor taught me the inner workings of the courtroom, how to try cases and how to be an effective advocate for justice on behalf of the community. Eventually I felt that I could do more on the bench. Serving as a judge has been an honor and a privilege. I can’t think of anything I would rather be doing.”
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A graduate of Upper Dublin High School, she went on to gain a Bachelor of Science degree in Law Enforcement & Corrections from Penn State and a law degree from Villanova.
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She served a 2 year judicial clerkship followed by 7 years as an assistant district attorney in Montgomery County, specializing in prosecuting sex crimes.
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“We will truly miss her knowledge, experience, compassion, and fairness for everyone that came in front of her over the years,” Ambler Police shared in a statement. “She will be extremely difficult to replace.”
Zaffarano was also honored by the borough last week for her exceptional service to the community.
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