Hartford Courant (courant.com)
Probate Judges Improving System

The probate court judges in Connecticut are very hard working and dedicated individuals. We take tremendous pride in the system and constantly strive to improve it to better serve the people of our state.

Recently, The Courant ran a story regarding the alleged actions of one probate judge, newly elected in 2006 [Connecticut section, Jan. 7, "State Probes Probate Judge"]. The article has cast a cloud over an entire group of dedicated men and women. The canons of judicial conduct provide guidance to judges regarding acceptance of campaign contributions. Those canons are constantly being updated to address any areas of concern. This incident is being investigated through the proper process.

It's a shame, however, that all of the good done by the probate judges leading efforts on legislation to improve the court system, as well as the community service performed by many of our probate judges, never get a Courant story.
Instead, articles continue to berate the system unnecessarily — such as the Jan. 1 Rick Green column ["Pausing For A Few Follow-Ups"], which mischaracterized Connecticut probate courts as "creaking, largely independent" entities and the General Assembly as "forcing consolidation" of the probate court system.

As Mr. Green must be well aware, this past year, the probate judges continued their own review of the probate court system and increased minimum standards and hours for probate courts in a constant effort to better serve Connecticut residents. In addition, an intense collaborative effort of probate judges, legal-rights attorneys and legislators worked together to lead a major overhaul of the conservatorship statutes.

It is also important to note, unlike virtually all other state agencies and courts, the probate court system is self-funded. Fees from the services we provide pay for all local costs, and in previous years, millions of dollars were returned to the state for the general fund. In recent years, however, the annexation of the children's court system, increased indigency fees and skyrocketing health insurance costs have resulted in the probate court fund being drawn down.

Connecticut's probate judges are committed to continue working to keep improving the system. Our goal is to provide compassionate, experienced and timely service to our citizens in the most critical times in their lives.

Dianne E. Yamin

President Judge Connecticut Probate Assembly Danbury

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Sprng 2008 

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Winter 2007 

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Fall 2007 

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Spring 2007