by Hudson Kamphausen
HARTFORD, CT – Richard A. Robinson, the first African-American Chief Justice in the history of the Connecticut Supreme Court, announced his retirement Tuesday after six years leading the state’s highest court.
Robinson was appointed Chief Justice by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy in 2018 after five years as an associate justice.
Robinson said it was the “highest honor” to serve the State of Connecticut during his 24 years in the state judiciary system, from Superior Court all the way his current post. He said he will finish his term in September.
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Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement Tuesday that he was thankful for Robinson’s dedication “to the people of Connecticut,” and that he appreciated Robinson’s help during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Justice Robinson has provided dedicated public service to the people of Connecticut for four decades, including 24 years as a judge and the most recent six years as Connecticut’s chief justice, imparting our system of justice with well-respected and valued leadership that has improved our courts for the better and is leaving a legacy that benefits the people of our state,” Lamont said. “During his tenure, Justice Robinson has made improving public access to the courts a hallmark of his approach, recognizing that justice operates best when it operates for everyone. He is universally admired as a compassionate, thoughtful, and skillful jurist.”
Lamont’s office has reportedly said that the governor will nominate a replacement for Robinson on the bench at a later date. The governor was joined in his praise for Robinson by Attorney General William Tong.
Tong said in a statement Tuesday that Robinson was a “trailblazer,” and also noted several connections between the two of them in sharing his thanks for Robinson’s years of service.
“I had the honor of arguing before him in one of the first tests of the Governor’s COVID authority,” Tong said. “It was obvious to me, as it has no doubt been to every attorney who has argued before him, what a strong judge and lawyer he is. His questions were always tough, incisive, and thoughtful. His leadership and mentorship – particularly for lawyers of color – has been incredibly instrumental in all our lives, our careers, and in our bar.”