Honorable Robert F. Kumor, Jr. today announced that he is stepping down as the First Justice of the Springfield District Court, a position that he has held for over nine years. This transition will become effective on September 1, 2005.

          Judge Kumor will remain on the bench as an Associate Justice. At Judge Kumor's request, District Court Chief Justice Lynda M. Connolly has begun the process of assessing the needs of the court in anticipation of appointing a new First Justice who will fully take over on October 1, 2005. In the interim, Regional Administrative Judge William W. Teahan, Jr. will serve as the Acting First Justice.

          Chief Justice Connolly stated, "I am grateful to Judge Kumor for his years of dedicated service in one of the state's busiest courts. He has served as the leader of the Springfield District Court with great distinction."

          First Justices serve for a term of five years, subject to renewal, and the appointment is subject to the approval of Honorable Robert A. Mulligan, Chief Justice for Administration and Management of the Trial Court.