(West Hartford, CT) - Probate Court Administrator Beverly K. Streit-Kefalas announced today that the New London Regional Children’s Probate Court has expanded to serve children and families from the City of Norwich. Regional Children’s Probate Courts throughout Connecticut assist annually in thousands of children’s matters including temporary custody and guardianship, termination of parental rights, visitation, adoption, emancipation, and parentage.

Norwich Probate Judge Chuck Norris said: “Regional Children’s Probate Courts were created to address growing complexities of vulnerable families and provide a supportive court experience for them. Under the leadership of Administrative Judge Jeffrey McNamara, the New London Regional Children’s Probate Court is well-situated to provide the best care planning for children and comprehensive, ongoing support for Norwich families.”

“I’ve welcomed the addition of Norwich to the New London Regional Children’s Probate Court network, and appreciate the collaboration with Norwich Probate Judge Chuck Norris in making this transition seamless,” said Judge McNamara. “The children and families of Norwich will benefit from the court’s emphasis on family engagement, ongoing support from highly experienced social workers, and long-term case monitoring.”

In 2005, the General Assembly authorized establishing Regional Children’s Probate Courts throughout Connecticut. In addition to New London, Regional Children’s Probate Courts operate in Hartford, Meriden, New Haven, Waterbury, and Putnam, supported by state General Fund appropriations.

With the addition of Norwich, the New London Regional Children’s Probate Court now serves 11 communities, including East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, Montville, New London, North Stonington, Old Lyme, Salem, Stonington, and Waterford. The court is located at One Union Plaza in New London and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.