Shipman’s Leander Dolphin Named Judicial Commission Chair

Shipman & Goodwin managing partner Leander Dolphin has been named the newest member and chair of the Connecticut Judicial Selection Commission. 

Gov. Ned Lamont appointed Dolphin to fill a seat previously held by commission chair Charles Tiernan, III. 

Following her appointment, the members of the commission voted Dolphin to the leadership role.

“This is one of the greatest professional commendations of my career.”

Shipman & Goodwin’s Leander Dolphin

“That my fellow members have entrusted me to lead this mission-critical commission is one of the greatest professional commendations of my career,” Dolphin said.

The 12-member commission is responsible for finding qualified judicial candidates for the Connecticut superior, appellate, and supreme courts. 

The commission then recommends those candidates to the governor to fill open positions. The group also evaluates incumbent judges seeking reelection.

Critical Commission

Six attorneys and six non-attorneys make up the commission. Members serve three-year terms as uncompensated volunteers. 

“I pledge to oversee the commission’s important work of evaluating and recommending judicial candidates based on merit while also consciously considering diversity in our organizational decisions and recommendations,” Dolphin said in a statement. 

She began her career with Shipman & Goodwin, returning years later after serving as vice president of human resources and general counsel for the Girl Scouts of Connecticut.

“Leander is highly respected by everyone who is fortunate to work with her.”

CBIA’s Chris DiPentima

She also is a member of CBIA’s board of directors and was named 2022 Attorney of the Year by the Connecticut Law Tribune. 

“Leander Dolphin is a great choice to fill this critical position,” CBIA president and CEO Chris DiPentima said. 

“Leander has an incredible work ethic and commitment to everything she is a part of. She is highly respected by everyone who is fortunate to work with her.”