LANCASTER, Pa., October 30, 2025— City & State PA has named Saxton & Stump shareholder the Hon. Christopher C. Conner (Ret.) to its annual “Fifty Over 50” list, recognizing Pennsylvania’s most accomplished leaders over the age of 50. The list celebrates influential figures in government, business, and media who have made a lasting impact in Pennsylvania through vision, leadership, and service. City & State PA is a multimedia news organization dedicated to covering Pennsylvania politics and policy.
Judge Conner joined Saxton & Stump in early 2025 after retiring from the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, where he served as a federal judge in Harrisburg. He is co-chair of the law firm’s Appellate Advocacy and Investigations, White Collar and Criminal Defense groups, and is also active throughout several other practice areas, including the Commercial Litigation, Intellectual Property, and Franchising Licensing and Distribution groups.
“It is a great honor to be named to this list alongside trailblazers who continue to shape the future of Pennsylvania,” Judge Conner said. “The state is full of modern pioneers whose work and dedication make a meaningful difference to their communities, so to be included on such a prestigious list is truly a privilege.”
Judge Conner served as the district’s chief judge from 2013 to 2020 during his 22 years on the bench. In addition to his leadership roles at Saxton & Stump, he advises clients facing complex government investigations, trials, and appeals. He is also part of Saxton & Stump’s affiliate company, Optimal Dispute Resolutions, where he mediates disputes and helps clients achieve amicable resolutions before trial.
“It’s truly been rewarding to have Judge Conner working with us,” Saxton & Stump CEO James W. Saxton said. “He is not only a wonderful person but an accomplished lawyer, making him a great role model for our teams.”
Judge Conner also served on the national policy-making body of the federal judiciary—the United States Judicial Conference. While serving on the bench, he co-authored the first edition of the Ethics Deskbook for United States Judges, a comprehensive ethics guide distributed to all members of the federal judiciary. Judge Conner has served as an adjunct professor at Penn State Dickinson School of Law and Widener University Commonwealth Law School. He co-founded the Pennsylvania High School Mock Trial Competition, ultimately receiving the American Bar Association’s Special Achievement Award.
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