What is a Probate Judge?
Judges of probate are the only elected members of the state judiciary. They are attorneys elected to serve in the Probate Court district in which they live. Presently there are 54 probate courts located throughout the state of Connecticut.
Probate courts handle a wide range of sensitive matters that affect Connecticut citizens from birth until death. These issues include conservatorships, guardianships, paternity issues, emancipation of minors, commitments of persons with psychiatric disabilities as well as decedent’s estates and trusts. This court is a statutory court governed by the state legislature.
How long do Probate Judges serve?
Judges are elected to hold office for a term of four years and their elections are held at the same time as the gubernatorial elections. When a judge is unable to complete his or her term, a special election is held and a new person is elected to serve for the balance of that judge’s term.
I heard this is a “Special Election”. What does that mean?
Judge Elkin is presently serving as the West Hartford Probate Judge. His term expires in 2018. Judge Elkin turns 70 in October 2016. Because judges are required to retire at age 70, an election must be held to fill the remainder of Judge Elkin’s term. This election is called a Special Election.
When is Election Day?
There will be a Democratic primary on Tuesday, August 9, 2016. Election Day is Tuesday, November 8.
Where do I go to vote?
You generally vote in your polling place as designated by town officials.
Can I vote with an absentee ballot?
You can vote with an absentee ballot both in a primary on August 9 and in the election on November 8. Absentee ballots can be obtained by filling out an application requesting such a ballot. The application can be found on this website or can be obtained on the Connecticut Secretary of State’s website or the website for the town of West Hartford.
How can I request a lawn sign?
You can request a lawn sign by emailing me at the email address included in this website which is [email protected] or calling Judy at 860-521-8620.
Can I donate to this campaign?
Yes – any person can donate to the campaign. The maximum donation is $1,000.00. All donations are appreciated.
Click here to donate by debit or credit card.
Or donations may be sent* to:
Eagan for Probate
Barbara Carpenter, Treasurer
P.O. Box 271328
West Hartford, CT 06127-1328
* this form (click here) must be completed with each donation.
How can I get more involved?
No matter what your experience all are welcome. Campaigns are won at the grassroots level. Campaigns such as these are fun because they involve a diverse group of people from all walks of life. Thank you for anything you are willing to do.