Nearing the end of his term, former Magistrate Donald Presutti was charged with concealing a gun without a license. He was consequently suspended and the case carried over into his retirement in 2005. Hon. Tara Smith, who lost to Presutti by 465 votes in 1999, finally secured her place on the bench. She brings to the Court her experience growing up in Avalon, 17 years as an administrator in Allegheny County`s minor judiciary, and several years managing the anatomy lab in the University of Pittsburgh`s Neurobiology Department. She is currently pursuing a B.A. in Administration of Justice at the University of Pittsburgh, and hopes to develop innovative programs for first-time juvenile offenders.

The Court covers a lot of ground along the Ohio River, with Bellevue having the most notable business district, along with the borough of Avalon. If you visit, make sure not to park within 20 ft. of a cross walk: it`s punishable by fine/tow and frequently imposed. But try to enjoy the scenic river views.

Hon. Tara L. Smith

Assistant DAs

Speeding tickets from I-279, plus a few DUI cases here and there.