Lauren Marks is no stranger to the courtrooms of Berks County.
She has spent the last 15 years toiling away in them as a defense attorney tackling civil, criminal and family law cases. Her work practicing in every division of the county court system has given her a diverse career, one she believes sets her up perfectly to take on a new challenge.
That’s why she has decided to seek a position as the newest Berks County judge.
“I love the work that I do, but I have always wanted to be a judge,” she said. “I believe that I have the temperament as well as the diversity and drive to be on the bench. I feel like this is the next step in my career.”
Marks is running to fill a vacancy on the bench left open by the retirement of Judge Jeffrey Sprecher in July 2023. The Lower Heidelberg Township Republican will cross-file to appear on the Republican and Democratic ballots in the May primary election.
She is the second candidate to announce her intention to run for the post. Berks County Assistant District Attorney Kathryn Lehman is also seeking election.
Marks said her experience has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the judicial system that has prepared her to serve residents immediately. She added that, if elected, she will bring a conservative approach to the bench, emphasizing her commitment to following constitutional law and making impartial decisions.
“We need experienced, ethical and impartial judges who are committed to following the law, protecting our families and defending the strong community values county residents believe in,” she said. “As our next judge, I am committed to doing just that.”
Marks spent two years in the Berks County Public Defender’s Office, where she primarily handled juvenile cases with a goal of rehabilitation to help them become successful members of the community. She then transitioned into private practice joining a fellow attorney and then opened her own firm.
Eventually, she said, the firm grew so large that she decided to join forces with two other attorneys in 2017. She continues to work as a partner at Palange, Endres and Marks.
“When it comes to protecting the rights of children and our families, no one fights harder than I do,” she said. “As a longtime member of our community, I have seen the devastating effects violence and broken families have on our society and legal system and will bring this experience to the bench.”
As a judge, Marks said she believes she has what it takes to make the tough decisions that come with the post.
“I would hope that I would have a welcoming courtroom where attorneys and litigants felt like they were getting a fair shake and the ability to state their case,” she said. “But as a judge that means you have to make decisions that people will not always like.”
Marks graduated from Penn State University with a degree in political science before earning her law degree from Duquesne University.