DOVER, DELAWARE (12/01/2014) Judge Jan R. Jurden is being nominated for president of Superior Court, Gov. Jack Markell announced today.
If confirmed by the state Senate at a special session Dec. 16, Jurden would become the first woman to hold the position. She would replace Justice James Vaughn Jr., who joined the state Supreme Court on Oct. 29.
Jurden, 53, is a Delaware native and has been a judge in Superior Court since 2001. Before then, she was a lawyer with Young, Conaway, Stargatt & Taylor for 13 years.
“Judge Jurden is a lifelong public servant who has served her country and her state with the utmost skill, dedication, and integrity. If she is confirmed, she will make an outstanding President Judge.” Markell said.
In a statement released by the governor’s office, Jurden said, “I am deeply humbled and thank Governor Markell for having the confidence in me to nominate me to succeed Justice Vaughn as President Judge of the Superior Court.”
Jurden has overseen the Superior Court’s Mental Health Court since its inception in 2008 and oversaw the Conflict Attorney Program from 2006 through 2008. She has also presided over Veterans’ Treatment Court in New Castle County.