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SB 157

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 10 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO PROVIDING FOR AN ADDITIONAL FAMILY COURT JUDGE IN SUSSEX COUNTY.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Darius Brown and 21 co-sponsors

Delaware creates one additional family court judge position in Sussex County to manage caseload pressures and reduce court delays in custody, support, and related family matters.

Signed by Governor
0
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Bill Summary · SB 157

Legislative bill overview

SB 157 amends Delaware Code Title 10 to create an additional family court judge position in Sussex County. The bill was introduced in May 2025 and quickly passed both chambers before receiving gubernatorial approval on May 27, 2025.

Why is this important

Family courts handle critical matters including divorce, child custody, child support, and abuse cases that directly affect families and children. Adding a judge to Sussex County addresses caseload pressures and reduces wait times, potentially improving access to justice for residents in Delaware's southernmost and geographically largest county.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: The bill requires funding for an additional judicial salary, benefits, and staff support, increasing state budget expenditures during periods of fiscal constraint
  • Geographic equity: The decision to add a judge specifically to Sussex County may raise questions about whether other counties face similar caseload pressures warranting additional resources
  • Judicial selection process: The bill does not specify how the new judge will be selected (appointment vs. election), which could affect judicial independence concerns depending on Delaware's appointment procedures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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