Dutchess County's newest Family Court Judge Jeff Martin of Red Hook took his ceremonial oath of office in Poughkeepsie on Thursday evening.

Martin has served as a judge in the Town of Red Hook Justice Court since 2007 and will be vacating that position on December 31 to assume his new duties on January 1.  Martin bested Republican opponent and close friend Karen Hagstrom in the November election. Kelley Enderley, an attorney in Poughkeepsie, saidMartin brings a substantial amount of patience and integrity to the bench.

"Judge Martin will bring his years of experience to Family Court and will use his knowledge and patience when ruling on all Family Court cases which include child custody, juvenile delinquency and others," Enderley said

Martin is a lifelong resident of Dutchess County and has been practicing law in the area since graduating from Vermont Law School in 1995. The married father of five was administered the oath by fellow Red Hook Town Justice Jonah Triebwasser before addressing the room full of friends, family, judges, lawyers and supporters. In his speech, Martin admitted that human nature allows for mistakes to be made by all professionals involved in Family Court cases including case workers, lawyers and even judges.

"I vow to do the best I can and will look to find the good amidst the pain in every case I handle," Martin said.

Martin officially takes office on January 1.

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