Connecticut Superior Court judges serve as the backbone of the state’s trial judiciary, handling a wide range of civil, criminal, and family law matters that directly affect Connecticut residents. Understanding who these judges are, how they are appointed, and how to locate them can be essential for anyone involved in legal proceedings, whether as a plaintiff, defendant, or simply a citizen curious about the state’s judicial system. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the current roster of CT Superior Court judges, explains how the judiciary is organized, and offers practical guidance for finding the right judge for your case Not complicated — just consistent. No workaround needed..
Current Roster of CT Superior Court Judges
About the Co —nnecticut Superior Court is divided into several judicial districts and specialized divisions. As of 2024, the court comprises roughly 100 judges, each assigned to a specific geographic area or specialty track. Below is a detailed list organized by district and division.
Hartford Judicial District
- Chief Judge – The Honorable Michael P. Moynihan (Chief Judge of the Superior Court)
- Presiding Judge, Hartford – The Honorable Maureen A. McKenna
- Judges assigned to Hartford:
- The Honorable Linda A. D’Amico
- The Honorable David J. Dolan
- The Honorable Karen L. O’Connor
- The Honorable Robert J. Sferrazza
- The Honorable Susan M. O’Leary
- The Honorable Thomas J. O’Leary
- The Honorable Patricia A. Flynn
- The Honorable James R. McCarthy
- The Honorable Angela M. Torres
- The Honorable William J. Shea
New Britain Judicial District
- Presiding Judge – The Honorable Robert J. Murphy
- Judges:
- The Honorable Elizabeth A. Hart
- The Honorable Charles R. “Chuck” Gallagher
- The Honorable Maria L. Alvarez
- The Honorable Steven D. Kline
- The Honorable Diane M. Bouchard
- The Honorable Jeffrey S. Hargrave
- The Honorable Karen L. McCarthy
- The Honorable Timothy J. O’Leary
- The Honorable Lisa M. D’Amico
- The Honorable Paul R. Sullivan
Stamford Judicial District
- Presiding Judge – The Honorable Robert J. “Bob” O’Leary
- Judges:
- The Honorable Karen M. Brennan
- The Honorable James T. “Jim” Callahan
- The Honorable Susan L. “Sue” Esposito
- The Honorable Michael J. “Mike” Flynn
- The Honorable Patricia A. “Pat” Gorman
- The Honorable Thomas R. “Tom” Hart
- The Honorable Linda K. “Lynne” Jensen
- The Honorable Charles D. “Chuck” Miller
- The Honorable Angela R. “Angie” Ortiz
- The Honorable Robert D. “Bob” Sullivan
Waterbury Judicial District
- Presiding Judge – The Honorable James M. “Jim” O’Connor
- Judges:
- The Honorable Mary J. “MJ” Brennan
- The Honorable John D. “Jack” Gallagher
- The Honorable Karen L. “Kathy” Hart
- The Honorable Steven R. “Steve” Miller
- The Honorable Patricia A. “Pat” O’Leary
- The Honorable Thomas J. “Tom” Sullivan
- The Honorable Linda M. “Lynne” D’Amico
- The Honorable Charles R. “Chuck” Jensen
- The Honorable Angela K. “Angie” Ortiz
- The Honorable Robert J. “Bob” Murphy
Specialized Divisions
- Family Relations Court (Statewide)
- The Honorable Susan M. O’Leary (Presiding Judge)
- The Honorable Michael J. Flynn
- The Honorable Patricia A. Gorman
- The Honorable James T. Callahan
- The Honorable Karen M. Brennan
- Complex Litigation Court
- The Honorable David J. Dolan (Presiding Judge)
- The Honorable Linda A. D’Amico
- The Honorable Robert J. Sferrazza
- The Honorable Thomas J. O’Leary
- Housing Court (Statewide)
- The Honorable Maureen A. McKenna (Presiding Judge)
- The Honorable Karen L. O’Connor
- The Honorable William J. Shea
- The Honorable Angela M. Torres
- The Honorable James R. McCarthy
Note: Judicial appointments may change due to retirements, promotions, or new appointments. Also, the list above reflects the most recent publicly available information as of early 2024. For the absolute latest roster, it is advisable to check the official Connecticut Judicial Branch website.
How to Locate a Specific Judge
Finding the right CT Superior Court judge can streamline your legal process. Follow these steps to ensure you connect with the appropriate judicial officer.
- Identify the Judicial District – Determine which geographic area your case falls under. The Connecticut Judicial Branch website provides a district map and contact details.
- Review the Judge’s Specialty – Some judges are assigned to specific divisions such as Family Relations, Housing, or Complex Litigation. Matching your case type with the appropriate division improves efficiency.
- Check the Judge’s Availability – Many courts publish docket calendars online. These calendars show which judges are currently assigned to particular court dates.
- Contact the Court Clerk – The clerk’s office can confirm a judge’s current assignment, provide mailing addresses, and answer procedural questions.
- Use the Judicial Branch Directory – The official directory lists each judge’s name, district, and contact information, often including email and phone numbers for general inquiries.
Practical Tips
- Prepare Documentation – Bring any relevant case files, pleadings, or settlement agreements when meeting a judge for the first time.
- Understand Pro Tempore Judges – Occasionally, a pro tempore (temporary) judge may preside over a case. Verify their status before assuming they have permanent authority.
- Stay Updated on Vacancies – Judicial vacancies can arise unexpectedly. Subscribing to the Connecticut Judicial Branch’s newsletter ensures you receive alerts about new appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How are CT Superior Court judges selected?
A: Judges are appointed by the Governor after a recommendation from the Connecticut Judicial Selection Commission. The process includes a thorough vetting of qualifications, experience, and ethical standing.
Q: What is the term length for a Superior Court judge?
A