The old courthouse, Allentown, may be 150 years old, but this “old” courthouse was the site of a new career chapter for Tom Creighton III as he was sworn in as magisterial district judge for District 31-3-01, Slatington.

On Dec. 21, Lehigh County President Judge Edward Reibman performed the ceremonial act of swearing in Creighton as a new magisterial district judge.

Creighton, who lives in Lynn Township, is excited about the opportunity.

“It’s a lot of responsibility and it’s a very important position,” Creighton said. “I feel like I can help a lot of people and make our community safe.

“I plan to be the best magisterial district judge I can be.”

The position of district judge is not easily obtained, but Creighton feels like he has the experience to succeed.

“Starting out I feel I have a lot of good experience working for the state representative [Gary Day] and also as a Lehigh County commissioner,” he said. “I’m also chairman of the judicial and corrections committee.”

Creighton also completed a four-week course and passed the requirements to become certified for district judge.

District 31-3-01 includes Slatington Borough and Washington, Heidelberg, Lowhill, Lynn and Weisenberg townships.

He will specialize in four main areas as district judge.

“[The position] deals with citations that happen in the judicial district, so that’s one,” Creighton explained.

“Civil cases that are less than $12,000, that’s No. 2. No. 3, is preliminary arraignments when someone is charged with a crime, and No. 4 is search warrants.

“People that want search warrants within the area [I have] to make sure they have probable cause.”

As Judge Creighton enters a new chapter of life, his focus is clear.

“I’m just honored to be able to serve the people,” he said.