Cuffe files for office

Libby native Matt Cuffe has officially filed for the office of District Court Judge in the 19th Montana Judicial District for Lincoln County. The sitting judge, James Wheelis, is expected to retire when his current term ends, Dec. 31, 2016.

Cuffe is a shareholder with Worden Thane P.C. in Missoula and has 20 years of experience as a trial lawyer. Those years, he said, have given him experience in the various types of cases and situations a district judge faces.

“Over the past 20 years I have represented people and businesses dealing with almost every legal issue that a District Court Judge will hear,” he said. “This gives me the necessary experience for this position. More importantly, my experience with clients from all walks of life regarding all facets of these issues, I believe, gives me the needed judgment.”

Cuffe tried his first jury trial for the Missoula County Attorney’s Office as a third-year law student and has been practicing in state, federal and Tribal courts throughout Montana ever since. His experience ranges from prosecuting those early criminal cases, to representing people dealing with marriage dissolutions, employment issues, custody disputes, contract disputes, grandparent visitation, easements, insurance, wills and probate, people injured in accidents and those accused of injuring others.

Cuffe said he, along with his wife of 26 years, Christi, look forward to the opportunity of returning to Libby. Having many family members and friends in Libby, Eureka, and Troy, they have a deep connection to the area and the people. 

“I am very excited about this opportunity,” he said. “Having grown up and worked in Libby, with friends and family in both Eureka and Troy, I know what a wonderful community this is. My goal is to be a positive  influence as well.”

The 2016 election will be held Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016.