Changes to the state’s probate court system in 2011 will mean consolidation of many courts, as there will be 54 instead of 117.
The redistricting, which is based on population levels, takes effect Jan. 5, 2011. Residents of many small communities will have longer drives to get to their local probate court. These courts deal with family matters such as settling estates, adoptions, termination of parental rights and guardianship for the mentally ill or developmentally disabled.
Under the new probate court districts, large communities such as New Haven, West Haven, Shelton and Wallingford will each have a local probate court.
Judge Paul Knierim, probate court administrator, called the redistricting process “successful,” as he said efforts were made to solicit input from the communities.
“There was a great deal of outreach to citizens and legislators to make sure this was a good fit,” Knierim said.
While lawmakers initially wanted a maximum of 50 courts, Knierim said they displayed flexibility and allowed 54.
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Probate Court Changes in 2011 Mean Longer Drives for Some
This is a good move for CT.
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