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CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Gov. Joe Manchin today joined representatives from business, labor, the West Virginia State Bar, West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals and the West Virginia State Legislature to officially announce his appointment of The Hon. Thomas McHugh to fill the Supreme Court seat left vacant by the recent passing of Justice Joseph Albright.

“Justice Albright dedicated his life to public service and he was excellent at it,” Gov. Joe Manchin said. “While he will be truly missed, his many contributions to our state will not be forgotten. Thomas McHugh was very considerate to step up to the plate and assist the Court while Justice Albright and his family were going through a difficult time, and once again Tom has been so kind to accept my appointment to serve again on the West Virginia Supreme Court.  Across the state there is such extreme consensus that Tom McHugh is an excellent Justice, of the highest caliber. I am honored that he has accepted this appointment.”

During the press conference, Gov. Manchin reiterated that the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals is the busiest appellate court of its kind in the entire country and it was necessary to find a person to fill this position who has extensive judicial experience so that the Court can continue its busy daily schedule. 

Justice McHugh said, “I appreciate Gov. Manchin appointing me to succeed Justice Albright and fill his term on the Court until the election of 2010.  Both Gov. Manchin and I realize how dedicated Justice Albright was to public service. Justice Albright’s staff and the Court staff, especially Supreme Court Administrator Steve Canterbury and Supreme Court Clerk Rory Perry, have worked very hard to assist me.”

McHugh continued, “It is a privilege for me to continue working with the Justices of the Court. I wish to note the encouragement of my wife, Judy, and my family as well as many members of the judiciary, have given me. It is my desire to serve the citizens of our state as a Supreme Court justice in an exemplary manner.”

The others justices also commented on the governor’s appointment.

“We appreciate the promptness of Gov. Manchin’s appointment of Acting Justice McHugh to the position in which he has been so ably serving the people,” Chief Justice Brent Benjamin said. “This appointment helps underscore the stability and predictability of our Supreme Court.  On a personal note, I am delighted to be able to continue working with my friend, Tom McHugh.” 

Justice Robin Jean Davis, who authored “A Tribute to Thomas E. McHugh: An Encyclopedia of Legal Principles from Opinions Written by Justice McHugh” for the West Virginia Law Review, said, “I had the privilege of working with Justice McHugh for over a year when I was first on the bench.  He became a true friend and a painstaking mentor. So much of the success I’ve enjoyed as a justice I owe to Tom McHugh. I am personally delighted that he has accepted the governor’s appointment. It is a fine day for West Virginia’s judicial system and, indeed, for all of our citizens.”   

Justice Margaret Workman said, “I am so pleased that the governor has appointed Justice McHugh. He brings institutional knowledge and a balanced outlook to all the issues, as well as immense integrity, compassion for people, and a strong work ethic. His presence has helped the Court’s recent transitions go smoothly and his work continues to strengthen the Court.”

Justice Menis Ketchum said, “I think it’s a great appointment.  He brings a calming influence, great work ethic and legal ability to our Supreme Court.” 

McHugh will fill this seat to 2010, when a special election will be held for the two-year unexpired term, and then next election for this seat is slated in 2012, the person elected will serve a 12-year term.