[VT – Philadelphia] May, 2025 – Anthony Stefanski [9], a candidate for Philadelphia’s Court of Common Pleas, brings 37 years of legal experience to the race.
Background & Education
Born in Brigantine, New Jersey, Stefanski grew up in a working-class family. He began working as an oceanfront lifeguard during high school at Holy Spirit High, a Catholic school known for its rowing team. His rowing success led to a full four-year athletic scholarship to Temple University, where he became a national champion and earned four varsity letters. Without this scholarship, college might have been financially out of reach.
Legal Career
After earning his law degree from Widener University’s Delaware Law School, Stefanski began clerking for Judge Nicholas D’Allesandro in Civil Motions Court. He soon joined the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, quickly advancing to the Major Trials Unit—the first in his class to do so.
Judge Ricardo C. Jackson personally selected him as a courtroom ADA, where Stefanski tried at least one serious jury case per week. He later joined the Law Office of A. Charles Peruto, taking on high-profile cases across Pennsylvania and witnessing firsthand how defendants without quality legal representation were disadvantaged. Judges often appointed him to cases where wrongful conviction was feared, including a major murder trial in Lehigh County.
With nearly four decades in courtrooms, Stefanski now represents union members in criminal cases throughout almost every county in the state. From routine hearings to life-altering trials, he has lived the courtroom experience daily.
Policy Platform
Stefanski advocates for fairness, compassion, and justice in the courtroom. He believes that even so-called “routine” cases can have life-changing outcomes. With decades of legal knowledge and a deep understanding of the system, he pledges to ensure every person—whether accused or seeking justice—receives a fair chance.
During an interview , Judge of the Court of Common Pleas candidate Anthony Stefansky highlighted his 37 years of legal experience. He served as an Assistant District Attorney for 7 years and has spent the last 30 years as a criminal defense attorney. He emphasized his longstanding connection with the Asian community, noting that he often parks, dines, and meets with clients in Chinatown, given its proximity to the courthouse. Stefansky expressed his hope that voters will support him in the upcoming May 20th primary, allowing him to bring his legal experience, fairness, and community understanding to the bench.
Party & Endorsements
Stefanski is a Democratic candidate and has earned endorsements and recommendations from:
- Philadelphia Democratic Party (Endorsed)
- Philadelphia Bar Association (Recommended)
- Speaker of the Pennsylvania House Joanna McClinton
- Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker
- Congressman Dwight Evans
- Philadelphia AFL-CIO
- and more
Ballot Information
Anthony Stefanski will appear on the Democratic Party primary ballot on May 20, 2025 as candidate number [9] if you vote using a machine.
