About Mike
MEET MIKE IN 60 SECONDS!
Mike Huff is a father, husband, attorney, activist, and proud union member from Northeast Philadelphia. Raised by working-class parents, he became the first in his family to graduate from college and law school. His upbringing instilled in him the values of hard work, fairness, and standing up for what’s right—principles that have guided his 30-year legal career.
As a criminal defense attorney admitted to practice in PA, NJ, and NY, Mike has dedicated his legal work to trial and appellate advocacy, representing clients in state and federal courts. He currently serves individuals who cannot afford legal representation, handling both trials and appeals. Mike has worked on high-profile federal cases, earning recognition for his efforts including the Award for Courage from the Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers of New Jersey.
Beyond the courtroom, Mike has spent the past decade serving Philadelphia communities through pro bono legal work, including federal reentry programs, free expungement clinics, and educational mock trials for young people. As a member of the Up Against the Law Legal Collective, he has represented activists pro bono, including Black Lives Matter protesters and fair housing advocates. He also led a case suing the city on behalf of unhoused residents during the 2020 Parkway encampments. A longtime member of the Democratic Party, Mike has dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours to voter registration, protecting voting rights, and ensuring every vote is counted.
Mike is running for judge because he believes the justice system should serve all Philadelphians. He has the experience and expertise to join the bench, having appeared in Municipal and Common Pleas Courts hundreds of times over his 30+ year career – handling cases ranging from misdemeanors to complex homicides, financial crimes and federal death penalty trials. Mike understands that Philly’s courts are often where people have their first interaction with the legal system, and he is committed to ensuring access to justice, transparency, and fair treatment for all.
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Volunteering with Daily Dove Care to distribute food in Bartram’s Garden.
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Registering voters with the Do More Campaign in North Philadelphia.
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Rallying with voter protection groups and elected officials ensuring all votes were counted.
Addressing the issues.
Mike Huff is committed to fostering a fair, respectful, and transparent judiciary that serves every Philadelphian with dignity.
Mike is driven by the belief that everyone, regardless of background, income, or identity, should have an equal opportunity to be heard in court. With over 30 years of trial experience, he is committed to applying the law fairly and impartially, ensuring each case is evaluated on its own merits. Mike's approach is rooted in respect and dignity for every individual, prioritizing justice over bias or assumptions.
Fairness and Impartiality in the Courtroom
Mike’s career reflects his dedication to advocating for marginalized communities, including representing individuals experiencing homelessness and activists arrested for civil disobedience. He believes that all individuals should feel welcome and heard in the courtroom, striving to make justice accessible for everyone, especially those who face systemic barriers.
Access to Justice for Vulnerable Populations
Respect and Redemption
Guided by the principles of respect, responsibility, and redemption, Mike sees the judiciary’s role as not only upholding the law but also recognizing the humanity in those who come before the court. He values opportunities for rehabilitation and growth, believing in the potential for individuals to turn their lives around with the right support.
Mike understands that the integrity of the judicial system is essential to a healthy democracy. He is dedicated to restoring public confidence by fostering a transparent and accountable court process that serves all Philadelphians equally. Mike believes judges have a critical responsibility to model fairness and uphold the principles of justice, ensuring the system works for everyone, not just a select few.