Statement of Chief Justice Stuart Rabner on Supreme Court Vacancy

“Earlier this year, Justice Jaynee LaVecchia announced that she would retire
from the Supreme Court after twenty-one years of service at the end of the
Court’s term. The Governor nominated a successor before the upcoming term,
which starts on September 1, 2021.

Recent public statements have confirmed that confirmation hearings will not
be held until after Election Day. By around that time, the Supreme Court will
have heard oral argument in about forty percent of the cases for the 2021-22
term.

To best serve the public, the Court should have a full complement of Justices
this fall to hear and decide cases and to address the heavy volume of petitions
for certification, motions, disciplinary and character matters, and other issues
that require timely resolution. Under the circumstances, I recently asked
Justice LaVecchia if she would consider delaying her retirement for a few
months. I am very grateful that she graciously agreed to do so and is willing to
remain on the Court until no later than the end of this calendar year.”