Judge Profile

Daniel J. Ackerman

Judicial Experience:

  • Senior Judge, Westmoreland County Court of Common Pleas, Elected, 1981

Other Professional Experience:

  • Assistant Public Defender, Westmoreland County, 1970-1973

Education:

  • JD, University of Pittsburgh School of Law, 1964
  • BA, Thiel College, 1961

Professional Civic Activities/Honors/Awards:

  • PA Conference of State Trial Judges

Rules/Procedures:

  • Do you have any special rules governing courtroom decorum (e.g., addressing the court, dealing with opposing counsel and witnesses, proper attire, etc.)? Judge Ackerman requires counsel to stand when addressing the court or questioning a witness. He allows counsel to move freely when questioning a witness.

  • Describe motions practice in your court. Are there any local practices that attorneys should be aware of? Judge Ackerman hears motions during the regularly scheduled motions court. He requires that counsel send a copy to opposing counsel at least four days prior to hearing the motion.

  • Are there any special practices or procedures lawyers appearing before you should know about? Judge Ackerman will allow phone conferences if all parties agree.

  • Any suggestions, admonitions or recommendations you would make to lawyers appearing before you? Counsel needs to only ask permission to approach a witness once.