Derek G. Swajanen

MARQUETTE — From 5:30-7:00 p.m. Thursday, at the Marquette Commons, Marquette attorney Derek G. Swajanen will be hosting a campaign launch event in connection with his bid to fill the pending Marquette County District Court judge vacancy. The public is welcome at this event.

“Derek is a lifelong resident of Marquette County, and a respected attorney with nearly 30 years of courtroom experience serving the people of Marquette County,” said a press release put out by Derek Swajanen for District Court Judge. “Derek began his legal career at Upper Michigan Legal Services in Marquette, before then serving as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Marquette County.

“Derek then entered private practice in 2003, where he has represented countless individuals and businesses in the last 23 years. Derek’s entire career has placed him in the District Court near daily, which makes him uniquely and extraordinarily qualified for this very important position.

“Derek has also been deeply involved in local community service for decades, having coached American Legion baseball for almost 25 years, before currently serving as teh Head Coach of the Marquette Senior High School Softball Team, co-founding Superior Fastpitch Softball and opening Powerhouse Baseball and Softball facility, which allows local youth the opportunity to train year-round. Derek has been instrumental in guiding and mentoring countless Marquette County youth. Derek and his wife, Dana, have raised four daughters, with their youngest being a junior at Marquette Senior High School. They have also embraced their newest role as grandparents to their first grandchild.”