From Retirement to Interim Leadership (Image Credits: Pexels)
Las Vegas — A competitive race has emerged for the Las Vegas Municipal Court Department 2 bench following the retirement of longtime Judge Susan Roger last fall. City leaders appointed veteran attorney Peter Bellon as interim judge in December 2025, but he chose not to seek election.[2] Three candidates with deep legal experience in local courts now compete in the nonpartisan primary on June 9, 2026, with the top two advancing to the general election on November 3.[3])
From Retirement to Interim Leadership
Judge Susan Roger stepped down effective November 4, 2025, after serving since 2011. The Las Vegas City Council selected Peter Bellon to fill the vacancy temporarily. Bellon, a former Marine and attorney with over 30 years in criminal and family law, began his interim role on December 4, 2025.
Bellon’s tenure bridges the gap until voters choose a permanent judge for the six-year term ending in 2030. The position handles misdemeanor cases, traffic violations, and specialty court matters that affect daily life in the community. Candidates filed during the January 2026 window, setting the stage for a contest focused on courtroom efficiency and fairness.
Jessica Green Brings Bench Experience to the Forefront
Jessica Green stands out as the only candidate with direct judging experience in Las Vegas Municipal Court. She has served as a pro tem judge and interim hearing master for nearly seven years, handling arraignments, motions, bench trials, and specialty court dockets across departments.[5]) Her background includes teaching history at Las Vegas High School before earning a law degree from UNLV’s William S. Boyd School of Law in 2011.[2]
Green previously practiced civil litigation and employment law. She emphasizes consistent application of the law and efficient case management to build public trust. Endorsements from veterans’ groups highlight her commitment to professionalism in a court that impacts housing, jobs, and driving privileges.[5]) Green advocates expanding specialty courts to address community justice needs.
Allycia Murphy Draws on Prosecutorial Expertise
Allycia Murphy transitioned from rural North Carolina prosecutions to deputy city attorney in Las Vegas since 2019. She leads the vehicular crimes unit, managing high-risk cases and collaborating with police on traffic safety initiatives. Murphy holds a bachelor’s from UNC Chapel Hill and a law degree from North Carolina Central University, both earned around 2011.[6][7]
Her career spans felony and misdemeanor prosecutions, civil motions, and municipal court appearances in all seven departments. Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson backs her candidacy. Murphy prioritizes public safety, constitutional rights, and resources for DUI specialty courts to reduce recidivism.[6]
Matt Lay Offers Balanced Prosecutor-Defense Perspective
Matt Lay combines prosecution and defense work in his bid for the bench. As assistant city attorney for Henderson since 2021 and earlier in Las Vegas, he prosecutes criminal matters. Lay ran a criminal defense firm for 11 years and served as a public defender in municipal courts.[2][8]
He earned his law degree from UNLV Boyd School of Law in 2008, following undergraduate and master’s degrees there. Lay supports the broken windows theory to prevent minor issues from escalating. He pledges efficient courtrooms, respect for all parties, and community outreach programs.[2]
Common Themes and Voter Considerations
All three candidates stress fairness, efficiency, and community impact in municipal court proceedings. The court manages cases from traffic tickets to misdemeanors that carry real consequences for residents. Experience varies, with Green on the bench, Murphy in prosecution, and Lay bridging both sides.[2]
Voters can review candidate questionnaires on the city website. Key differences emerge in prior roles and proposed initiatives like specialty court expansions. The primary will narrow the field, giving residents a direct say in local justice.
- Primary election: June 9, 2026
- General election: November 3, 2026
- Term: Six years, unexpired to 2030
- Nonpartisan race
- Filing closed January 16, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Interim Judge Peter Bellon holds the seat until election results.
- Candidates emphasize bench efficiency and public trust.
- Top two from primary advance to November ballot.
As Las Vegas residents prepare for the primary, the choice will shape everyday justice in the municipal court. Each contender brings unique strengths to address community needs. What do you think about the candidates’ experiences? Tell us in the comments.
