Jablonski is new Hudson assignment judge

Jeffrey R. Jablonski, the Superior Court Judge who approved a temporary restraining order preventing protestors at the homes of Hudson County officials last December, has received a promotion.

Chief Justice Stuart Rabner announced on Friday that he elevated Jablonski, a 51-year-old former Kearny public defender, to serve as Hudson County Assignment Judge.

Jablonski will replace Peter F. Bariso, who is retiring after 16 years on the bench.

The appointment maintains a significant edge among white assignment judges.  In the state’s 15 vicinages, two assignment judges are Black, and one is Latino.  Eight are women and seven are men.

Hudson County is one of the most ethnically diverse counties on the East Coast, with North Hudson representing the second-largest Cuban population in the nation.  Following the certification, the 2020 U.S. Census data, white residents in Hudson County will potentially be in the minority.

After demonstrators opposed to the renewal of the county’s contract with U.S. Immigration, Customs and Enforcement to detail immigrants began protesting outside the home of Hudson County Executive Thomas DeGise and five county commissioners, Jablonski issued a restraining order.

The American Civil Liberties Union has challenged the TRO and Jablonski has scheduled a hearing next month.

Jablonski was nominated to the bench by Gov. Chris Christie in 2013 and received tenure last year after Gov. Phil Murphy renominated him.