Eric’s Story
Eric’s public service makes him qualified to be the next Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Berks County
A Lifelong Dedication to Service
Through his professional achievements, community involvement, and dedication to mentorship, Eric Taylor exemplifies the spirit of public service. His career and personal life reflect a deep commitment to making a positive impact on those around him.
A Career Rooted in Public Service
Public service has always been at the heart of Eric Taylor’s legal career. Before becoming a Magisterial District Judge, Eric dedicated more than 12 years as an Assistant Public Defender at the Berks County Public Defender’s Office. In this role, he represented individuals in a variety of legal proceedings, including preliminary hearings, appellate hearings, and parole and mental health commitment proceedings. His extensive courtroom experience spans both bench trials and jury trials.
Early Foundations in the Legal Field
Eric’s journey to the bench began with invaluable experiences working for judges. After graduating from law school, he served as a judicial law clerk for the late Honorable William J. Cook. During his first summer in law school, he interned with Federal Magistrate Judge Robert B. Kugler. Other formative experiences included working with legal services, interning at Fair Trials Abroad, and gaining hands-on knowledge at the Camden County Public Defender’s Office.
Academic Excellence
Eric’s educational background has been a cornerstone of his success. He earned his bachelor’s degree in English and political science from Wake Forest University in 1994. In 2004, Eric graduated with honors from Rutgers University School of Law - Camden, receiving his Juris Doctor. He became a member of the Pennsylvania Bar in 2005.
Commitment Beyond the Courtroom
Eric’s dedication to public service extends far beyond the legal field. He served as a Peace Corps Volunteer, teaching English abroad, and later joined the Crisis Corps to assist in Louisiana after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.
Active Member of the Legal Community
Since joining the Berks County Bar Association in 2006, Eric has contributed in numerous ways. He has served as Assistant Editor and Editor of the Berks Law Journal, written book reviews for the Berks Barrister magazine, and acted as both a juror and judge in the Bar Association’s annual mock trial competition for Berks County high schools.
Through the Bar Association’s Book ‘Em Program, Eric has volunteered to read to kindergarten and pre-kindergarten classes in Reading Schools and has also supported the program financially.
Though no longer part of the Young Lawyers group (you can’t be young forever), Eric actively participates in Bar Association events, including Law Day, the annual Christmas Party, and softball games with fellow members.
Volunteer Work and Mentorship
Eric’s passion for helping others extends into his personal life. He has previously volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berks County and the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Today, he channels much of his energy into coaching his son’s sports teams. Over the years, Eric has served as head coach or assistant coach for wrestling, tee ball, basketball, flag football, soccer, and lacrosse.