Pre-Primary Profiles: Michael P. Murray, Judge of Probate

Tuesday's primary will determine which of three Republicans candidates for Judge of Probate will represent the party in the general election. The winner in November will be the first judge for the combined New Canaan-Darien Probate Court when the state's consolidation plan goes into effect on January 5, 2011. 

Mike Murray, Bill Osterndorf, and John Ryan are the candidates vying to take over a position currently held by Russell Kimes in New Canaan and John Rearden in Darien. This is the first of a three-part series.

MICHAEL P. MURRAY

Age: 45

Lives in: Darien

Grew up in: Stamford

Education: Fordham Law School, '90, Villanova, '87, BA Economics

Current employment: New Canaan office of Ivey, Barnum, and O'Mara

Personal:  Murray and his wife, Stephanie, have four children, ages 7-12

On why he's the best candidate for Judge of Probate:

I think there are three reasons. One is experience. I've had legal experience in both towns. Given the sensitive nature of what goes on in family court you need some depth and breadth. And then intellect, you've got to be on top of your game and smart enough to do it. Then temperament, which could be the most important. Given the sensitive nature of what's going on I think I have the right temperament. I'm very even keeled. I've been at it for a long time now and I don't think there's anything out there that can get me rattled.

On combining Darien & New Canaan Probate Courts:

You've got the  component of bringing two towns together and I think you need the right person at the right time for that. I keep telling people that this is not supposed to be the Turkey Bowl. It's not Darien versus New Canaan. We're looking to bring one court together.

I think it's a good way to bring the towns together. I don't see any drop-off in service. The economies of scale work well for both towns.

One of the options for this consolidation merger was to do away with the probate courts and I'm very thankful they didn't because as a practicing attorney I think they work very well.

On campaigning:

Politics are funny. You certainly find out who your friends are.  They're standing with me at the train station, standing with me at the dump, it's been great, walking around with balloons at sidewalk sales. That part has been fantastic. I've been overwhelmed by the support I've gotten. Its been quite humbling honestly. 

Next in the series: Bill Osterndorf