Bergenfield Appoints Latino-American As Municipal Judge

BERGENFIELD, NJ - For the first time in Bergenfield's history, a Latino-American will serve as the town's municipal judge.

Shortly after the January 5th Bergenfield swearing-in ceremonies of Mayor Arvin Amatorio and Councilmembers Ora Kornbluth, Buddy Deauna and Marc Pascual, the council named Franklin S. Montero as the borough's municipal judge.

“Judge Montero was a clear and excellent choice for this position, having served as both a Public Defender and Prosecutor for the Borough of Bergenfield over the course of his career,” said Mayor Arvin Amatorio. “He holds himself to the highest standards and I have no doubt he will serve diligently to ensure fair and equal treatment of everyone who enters his courtroom.”

"Having served as a Prosecutor and Public Defender in Bergenfield, I understand what a special place this town is, and I am eager to serve the community in my capacity as Municipal Judge," said Judge Franklin Montero. "I am glad that Bergenfield has crossed an important cultural barrier in appointing a Latino-American as Municipal Judge, and am committed to promoting equality and justice for all."

Judge Montero holds degrees from New York University, Fordham University and obtained his law degree from the Rutgers-Newark School of Law. He clerked for Superior Court Judge R. Rosa. He previously served as both a Public Defender and Prosecutor in Bergenfield.