2025 Judicial Candidate Nina Sordoni - Second to Respond

2025 Judicial Candidate Nina Sordoni was the second to weigh in on our latest Independent Gazette inquiry, adding her voice to the growing conversation around courtroom transparency in Pennsylvania.

Nina Sordoni's Bio

Nina Sordoni is a candidate for Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in Wyoming and Sullivan Counties.

For over a decade, Nina has practiced law in various counties throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. She is a partner at SDS Family Law Group, LLC, where she specializes in Family Law.
Nina attended the University of Miami, where she majored in accounting and obtained her law degree from Villanova University School of Law. While in law school, Nina was involved in Villanova’s Civil Justice Clinic where she represented underprivileged individuals in civil matters, participated in an externship at The Support Center for Child Advocates, Philadelphia, and had the privilege of serving as a law clerk for Pennsylvania Superior Court Judge, Correale F. Stevens where she reviewed criminal appeals.

Nina grew up in Hazleton, Pennsylvania. She is one of five children and an aunt to thirteen nieces and nephews. She understands the importance of family and protecting the rights and futures of children.  Nina’s upbringing and experiences contributed to her specializing in Family Law. Her devotion to protecting the rights of parents and children led her to seek the Wyoming and Sullivan County Judgeship, as the new judge will oversee Family Court.

Nina is a member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association, Family Law Section, Wyoming/Sullivan County Bar Association, Luzerne County Bar Association. She has lectured on Family Law throughout the Commonwealth and met with legislators regarding grandparents raising grandchildren. Most recently, she, with the help of colleagues, revised the Wyoming/Sullivan County Rules of Court. Nina serves as a solicitor for various municipalities where she assists zoning hearing boards, planning boards, and municipalities at large.

Outside of her day-to-day work as an Attorney, Nina has been active in numerous civic and business organizations including the Rotary Club of Tunkhannock, Wyoming County United Way, Prevent Child Abuse of America, she currently sits on the board of directors of US Hydrations and The Luzerne Foundation, prior to merging with Peoples Security, she was a member of the FNCB advisory board, she is a past Co-Chair of the American Cancer Society Season of Hope Gala, and a past member of Allied Services Ryan’s Run Team, running the NYC Marathon numerous times.

Nina resides in Exeter Township with her husband Andrew “Jack” and their two dogs, Sammy and Stevie. She enjoys the outdoors, traveling, sports and cooking.

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The letter from the Independent Gazette with Nina Sordoni's Responses:​

Dear Judicial Candidates,
Legislation is being introduced to allow the recording of civil and criminal court proceedings in Pennsylvania, beginning with a memorandum from State Representative Jamie L. Flick. Supporters argue that cameras in the courtroom would promote transparency, foster public understanding, and help deter unethical behavior. Importantly, this proposal envisions recordings functioning as a kind of “black box” system—archived securely and accessed only when questions, complaints, or incidents arise. The intent is not to sensationalize proceedings, but to create an objective, verifiable record that protects the integrity of the judicial process and builds trust among all who participate in or are affected by it. As this proposal moves forward, many voters would appreciate knowing your position and how you believe transparency and fairness can be responsibly balanced in our courts.

Question 1: Promoting Trust Through Transparency
Do you believe transparency plays a role in maintaining accountability and public trust in the courtroom?

Please explain your position. If you support transparency, what specific steps would you take to promote it? If you have reservations—such as concerns about cameras, recordings, or public access—how do you believe the integrity of the courtroom is best maintained while addressing those concerns?
​
Nina Sordoni:
I believe transparency plays a role in maintaining accountability and public trust in the courtroom and the legal system. Presently, Pennsylvania is 1 of only 5 states that prohibits cameras in courtrooms which shows there is away to permit cameras while maintaining the safety and privacy of all involved in court proceedings. The visual and audio capabilities provided from the use of cameras provides a level of review that a written transcript cannot, visual actions. I believe the use of a camera system promotes civility. I am aware that legislation is being introduced to allow the recording of civil and criminal court proceedings in Pennsylvania. The proposed legislation places limitations on the recording of child witnesses, witnesses alleged to have been the victim of sexual assaults and juveniles. Should such legislation pass, I would take steps to assure that the public is educated on the legislation. Additionally, to promote transparency, I believe it is important to inform litigants of their right to request a copy of the transcript and assure litigants understand the procedural process to obtain a transcript. Further, transcript requests should not be cost prohibitive. Lastly, I believe knowledge and accessibility aid in transparency. Hosting roundtables, providing court updates and publishing local court opinions aid in transparency and allow the public to be informed.


Question 2: Audio and Video Recording in the Courtroom
Do you believe allowing audio or video recording in the courtroom—prior to any formal legislation—can support transparency and judicial accountability?

Would you permit such recordings in your courtroom, and under what circumstances? Please explain your position, including any limitations or protections you feel are necessary to preserve courtroom integrity and the fair administration of justice.

Nina Sordoni: 
Prior to state legislation being passed, Rule 1910 of the PA Code generally prohibits the use of electronic devices to capture, record, transmit, or broadcast photographs, videos, or audio within a courtroom or adjacent areas. However, there are exceptions for nonjury civil proceedings. Thus, if a recording request was made, recording would be permitted if the following elements were met: (1) a recording system was established that monitors the chain of custody so no edits and or tampering can occur, (2) all parties consent, (3) witnesses consent and (3) no child witnesses or any witnesses alleged to have been the victim of sexual assault or abuse.


Question 3: Recording in Judicial Chambers
What is your stance on allowing audio or video recording in judicial chambers?

Supporters argue that limited recording—used as a safeguard—could help ensure integrity and deter inappropriate behavior behind closed doors. Do you believe this type of internal accountability has value? Please share your perspective, including any concerns you may have about privacy, confidentiality, or judicial independence.

Nina Sordoni:
I believe any settlement conference or status conference which occurs in chambers should be recorded and/or transcribed provided the discussions do not involve minors or victims of assault. Additionally, any recording of such events prior to state legislation would require the same elements as outlined above to be satisfied.


Thank you for your time and service to the people of Pennsylvania.
Respectfully, Lou Jasikoff and Mike Lacey