Wade Albert

I work at Stevens & Lee, P.C., where I primarily practice employment law. Among other things, I litigate claims for employment discrimination and wage/hour law, and provide advice to companies to ensure that they do not violate their employees" rights. I also have side practices in the areas of zoning law and election law.

Further, I have handled many pro bono cases over the years. One of my proudest achievements is that in 2019, the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Criminal Trial Division, awarded me the Pro Bono Publico Award for my work helping low-income Philadelphians expunge their criminal records.

In the past, I practiced law on the plaintiff-side at a boutique firm, where I represented employees who suffered workplace harassment or discrimination, persons who were denied their civil rights, and individuals who found themselves on the losing end of bad business transactions.

At the beginning of my legal career I clerked for Judge Nitza Quinones Alejandro and Judge Sandra Mazer Moss.

I believe that I am qualified to be a judge because I have broad experience in the law, I have demonstrated a commitment to public service, and I have proven to be a competent leader.

With regard to my experience, I would bring to the bench a knowledge of diverse areas of the law and an understanding of what it means to participate in the justice system from a variety of perspectives. My background provides me with the invaluable ability to approach cases objectively because I understand the viewpoints and concerns of many different stakeholders in the legal system.

My history of public service also shows that I am well suited for the bench. Over the years I have been involved in many organizations, political action committees, and causes that seek to advance equality and improve the community. Among other things, I served as President of the Center City Residents" Association, the civic association that represents the neighborhood of Center City West. I also served as Chair of the Endorsement Committee of the Liberty City LGBTQ+ Democratic Club, a progressive political action committee that advocates for LGBTQ+ issues and seeks to elect LGBTQ+ identifying persons and allies in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

I additionally have volunteered countless hours working pro bono for clients who could not otherwise afford legal representation. I believe this record establishes that, if elected, I will use my office to deliver justice fairly, impartially, and with empathy.

I am most inspired when I meet former offenders who have been able to use the resources available in the criminal justice system to better their lives and become productive members of society.

While the criminal justice system in Philadelphia has seen many improvements in recent years, I believe that more work is needed. For example, I believe in sentencing reform to eliminate the sentencing disparities that often negatively impact people of color. I believe that sentences should be crafted to encourage rehabilitation, not set an offender on a path towards recidivism. I also believe that more resources should be channeled into diversion programs to give non-violent offenders the tools they need for better life opportunities.

I understand the justice system exists to keep streets safe and prevent people from injuring others. Victims are entitled to justice. However, punishments must be rehabilitative. I believe that to the greatest extent possible, people should be given the opportunity for a second chance and the means to pursue a better path moving forward.

It happens to me all the time. I mostly worry about what I have done and what I can do to best advance my clients" interests.

One of my role models is Sonia Sotomayor because she overcame so much adversity in her youth to ultimately become the leading progressive voice on the U.S. Supreme Court. And just as important to me, even though she is one of the most influential people in American government right now, she is humble with a wicked sense of humor.

My favorite book is probably "The Death and Life of Great American Cities" by Jane Jacobs. It helped me realize how all the moving parts in our society impact the vitality of our neighborhoods, and that we need strong, civically-engaged communities to have a functioning city. Before reading this book, I had always loved living in Philadelphia, but I was not fully able to explain why. After reading the book, I understood: our diversity is our greatest strength and it is what allows Philadelphia to thrive.

"Losing My Religion" by R.E.M.

259