Rabner taps new Monmouth assignment judge

Marc Lemieux is the new assignment judge in Monmouth County, Chief Justice Stuart Rabner announced today.

Lemieux replaces Judge Lisa Thornton, who died unexpectedly last month at age 59.

“In selecting the next assignment judge, we cannot look to replace Judge Thornton. All we can do is move forward with the same level of dedicated service to the public that Monmouth vicinage is known for” Rabner said.  “I have every confidence that Judge Marc Lemieux will live up to that noble aim.”

A former First Assistant Monmouth County Prosecutor, Lemieux was nominated to the Superior Court by Gov. Chris Christie in 2017, and has been the presiding judge in the criminal division since 2021.  He’s up for renomination to a tenured term next summer.

The 53-year-old Lemieux could hold the top Monmouth judicial post until 2040.

“I am humbled to take on this new role,” said Lemieux.  “Judge Thornton was a dear friend and the consummate professional. We will work hard to honor her legacy.”

Rabner named Jill O’Malley as the new criminal division presiding judge.