The recent class of judicial nominations by Governor Ned Lamont fortunately includes a considerable number of candidates with significant criminal law experience. It is a welcome development to those who are concerned with the productive operation of the criminal justice system.

The present need for experienced criminal judges is acute. Judges who were the mainstay of the system have retired, been promoted to appellate positions or precluded from serving due to their senior status as a result of the coronavirus. This new group, if confirmed, contains a healthy mix of experienced nominees who have worked as prosecutors or criminal defense attorneys. The advantages to this type of judge sitting on the criminal dockets are many.