Assistant U.S. District Attorney to Become District Court Judge in Bangor

Andrew Lizotte set to take on new role after public hearing next month

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Andrew Lizotte, currently an assistant U.S. district attorney in Bangor, is on track to become a District Court judge in Piscataquis and Penobscot Counties. A public hearing on Lizotte's appointment is scheduled for March 6, and if confirmed by the state Senate, he will take on the new role.

Why it matters

This appointment reflects a transition from federal to state-level law for Lizotte, who has served as an assistant U.S. attorney in Maine since 2014. His experience in both federal and state law matters is seen as an asset for the District Court bench.

The details

Lizotte, of Dover-Foxcroft, first applied for the District Court judge role in 2021 and resubmitted his application in January. In his applications, he highlighted his deep affinity for the Maine Highlands region and his belief that 'public service is a public trust.' As a federal prosecutor, Lizotte noted that his work has provided him with expertise in state law matters common to the District Court.

  • Lizotte first applied for the role in 2021.
  • Lizotte resubmitted his application in January 2026.
  • A public hearing on Lizotte's appointment is scheduled for March 6, 2026.

The players

Andrew Lizotte

An assistant U.S. district attorney in Bangor who is set to become a District Court judge in Piscataquis and Penobscot Counties.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.