District Judge David Kovach is retiring from the bench after two terms.

CRANBERRY TWP. — District Judge David Kovach is tidying up his desk in preparation for his retirement.

Kovach said he wanted to leave his files and office in good condition for his successor, Kevin Flaherty, who will be sworn in Monday.

Before serving two six-year terms as district judge for the Cranberry Township area, Kovach served for 33 years in the Cranberry Township Police Department, retiring as a sergeant in 1998. Kovach said it was a fairly easy transition from police work to the bench.

“I think it's key for a judge to listen to both sides of the story,” he said. “There's always two sides of the story.”

Kovach said he particularly will miss being part of the courtside action and the dynamics of hearings.

“The prosecutors and defense battle it out, and you play referee and make the decision,” Kovach said. “I've always strived to make those decisions fair to both sides.”

Kovach said he also is proud to be part of further development to the community, especially in the form of a new courthouse built 2015. Before the new building, the district court was renting space elsewhere.

“I think it's great for the community,” Kovach said. “I let people know this is their courthouse.”

Kovach said he plans to spend more time with his three grandchildren and maybe pick up a part-time job to stay busy.

“I'll miss the courtroom,” Kovach said.