Eastern Shore Bar Association weighs in on judicial vacancy as Shore born Richmond Attorney leads race

The Eastern Shore Bar Association (ESBA) has formally submitted its recommendations to the Virginia General Assembly regarding the District 2A General District Court vacancy left by Judge Gordon Vincent’s retirement. During a February 13 meeting in Eastville, the association evaluated five candidates: Carl H. Bundick, André D. Wiggins, Michael H. Baker, Leslie M. Dix, and J. Matthew Haynes, Jr.

The ESBA rated four candidates as “Qualified” – Bundick, Wiggins, Baker, and Dix – while designating Haynes as “Not Qualified.” In a preference vote, Wiggins received seven votes, followed by Bundick with six, Dix with five, and Baker with three. The association expressed concerns about appointing a judge without significant Eastern Shore court experience, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge and community investment.

However, Haynes, a Broadwater Academy graduate and grandson of former State Senator Bill Fears, was the only candidate invited to interview in Richmond on Monday. Haynes highlighted his Eastern Shore roots, including his current home and family connections in the area. “I’ve developed a pretty solid skill set in state and federal court in multiple jurisdictions over the last 25 years,” Haynes told the committee. “When this seat opened, it was an opportunity to bring that wealth of knowledge back home.” His legal career includes over 50 first-chair jury trials and service as President of the Virginia State Bar Litigation Section.

A final vote is by the General Assembly is expected mid-week.