Henry duPont Ridgely, justice of the Delaware Supreme Court, has elected to retire from the Supreme Court effective January 31, 2015.
“For three decades, Justice Ridgely has served the State of Delaware with distinction as a member of the finest judiciary in the nation” Gov. Jack Markell stated. “In addition to his firm commitment to justice, Justice Ridgely was intently focused on the continual improvement of the judicial system, as well as ensuring equality and fairness within the criminal justice system. Justice Ridgely’s impact is far-reaching and his presence as a member of Delaware’s highest court will be missed. I thank him for his service to the State of Delaware and wish him all the best as he moves toward retirement.”
Ridgley served as trial judge on the Superior Court from 1984 until his appointment as a Justice of the Supreme Court in 2004. From 1990 until 2004, he served as President Judge of the Superior Court.
Before being appointed to the bench, he was a partner in the firm of Ridgely and Ridgely in Dover. A graduate of Syracuse University (B.A.), The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law (J.D.), and the George Washington University Law School, Ridgely currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at the George Washington University Law School.
Among numerous other accolades, Justice Ridgely is a two-time recipient of the Chief Justice of Delaware’s Award for Outstanding Judicial Service.
Ridgely had been mentioned a candidate for the post of chief justice, with supporters citing his ties to Kent County. Markell picked Chancellor Leo Strine for the post. Two other justices have also retired from the court in the wake of Strine’s confirmation.
