Family support magistrates hear cases involving paternity and child and spousal support. They are not judges, but perform some judicial functions. The governor appoints family support magistrates; the chief court administrator appoints the Chief Family Support Magistrate.

“The position of chief family support magistrate is an important one, in that he or she supervises the family support magistrate division, performs other duties as provided by state law and submits an annual report,” Judge Quinn said. “I’m thrilled that Sandra Baird has agreed to fill this position, and her previous experience as a family support magistrate will well serve the families who come before the magistrates seeking, in many cases, much needed financial assistance.”

“I look forward to working with Judge Quinn and my fellow family support magistrates,” Chief Family Support Magistrate Baird said. “Family support magistrates provide an invaluable service, and I am very proud of the work they do and the positive difference they make in people’s lives.”

Prior to her most recent appointment, she served continuously as a family support magistrate since 1995. Her work also has included appointments to the Public Service and Trust Commission, and the Family Support Magistrate Education Committee; she remains a member of both groups. She also served on the Judicial Review Council from 2001 to 2006.

Before becoming a family support magistrate, she worked as: session counsel and clerk to the Screening Committee of the House Democrats (1994 and 1995 sessions); City of New Haven Corporation Counsel (1992 and 1993); an attorney in private practice (1979-1992); co-counsel to the legislative Commission to Study the Feasibility of a Regional Water Authority (1976-1977); director of financial aid at Quinnipiac College (1969-1971); and as administrative assistant for the City of New Haven’s Redevelopment Agency (1967-1969).
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