Judge Kirby has proudly served as a Bethlehem Town Justice since 2014. Prior to being elected, he served nine years in Bethlehem Town Court as a Town Prosecutor. During his seven years on the bench, Judge Kirby has handled over 30,000 criminal, vehicle and traffic, landlord/tenant, and small claims cases. Judge Kirby has worked with and earned the respect of local and state law enforcement, the Albany County District Attorney’s office, the Albany County Public Defenders’ office, as well as the many local criminal defense attorneys who regularly appear in court.

The Bethlehem Justice Court is one of the busiest town courts in New York and it typically receives complements from the attorneys and their clients on how well it functions in a fair, timely and efficient manner. In addition to handling the many responsibilities of the Bethlehem Town Court, Judge Kirby also volunteer as an Albany Family Court Accessible Magistrate acting in place of the Youth Part of the Albany County Family Court when it is not in session. He has also served as an Acting Albany City Court Judge.

During the last several years, Judge Kirby implemented the many significant and important changes to the New York criminal justice laws, which have impacted every aspect of Bethlehem Town Court. He has done so in the best manner possible, considering the unique needs and concerns of our community. This is particularly true during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this trying time, Judge Kirby worked with other Bethlehem Town officials, the Bethlehem Town Police, other law enforcement agencies, and the legal community to ensure the safety of everyone appearing in Bethlehem Town Court, without sacrificing the core function of providing fair and equal justice.

In addition to his judicial experience, Judge Kirby is a nationally recognized trial attorney and maintains a private law practice at the law firm of Conway & Kirby, which is located at the Four Corners in the center of town. As a small business owner, Judge Kirby manages attorneys, paralegals, and support staff daily. He regularly handles some of the most difficult types of cases and appears before various courts and juries throughout New York State. His extensive civil trial experience helps him as a Town Justice, particularly when he presides over jury trials in Bethlehem Town Court.

Judge Kirby is married to Amy Conway, who grew up in Delmar. They have three children ages 19, 16, and 13. Their family is firmly rooted in this community. Their children have attended Bethlehem Central High School, Bethlehem Middle School, and Eagle Elementary School. They have been involved in many sports and performing arts programs our community has to offer. Over these years, Judge Kirby has helped coach our children’s recreational sport teams and theatrical performances. He is always on hand to cheer them on whether on the sidelines or in the audience.