MONTICELLO - Sullivan County District Attorney James Farrell is running for the seat of county court judge, he announced on Wednesday.

Farrell said his 23 years in the District Attorney's Office made him uniquely qualified for the role of county judge.

“When I stood in front of the courthouse ten years ago… I promised to work hard for the citizens of this county and seek justice in every case my office handled to ensure fundamental fairness. And I have worked hard to deliver on those promises,” he said.

Farrell served as an Assistant DA for 14 years, and then the County DA, being re-elected to that office three times. He succeeded Steve Lungen as DA.

Lungen delivered a video message for Farrell. “He has demonstrated over these past 25 years that he has the intellect, the ethics, the legal knowledge of the criminal law and the courtroom experience,” Lungen said. “He knows the rules of evidence, and he has the courage and integrity that is required in this position.”

Farrell is running on the Republican line and is seeking to succeed Judge Frank LaBuda who is retiring at the end of his term.

Sheriff Mike Schiff offered his endorsement for Farrell.

“Jim has been a friend and a partner for public safety in this county and I don't think the county has had a better public servant represent them anywhere in any capacity, and Jim has my full support,” Schiff said.

The election for county court judge will be held in November and Cynthia Dolan has already announced her candidacy.