Government
Rabner picks Heidi Willis Currier as chief appellate judge to replace Sumners
Source: New Jersey Globe · Jul 17, 2026, 12:13 PM
AI-assisted briefing from the publisher’s public headline and excerpt — not original reporting. How we write briefings

Chief Justice Stuart Rabner has selected Heidi Willis Currier as the next chief appellate judge, succeeding outgoing Judge Sumners in a significant New Jersey judicial leadership transition.
The announcement includes additional personnel changes within the state's appellate system, including a deputy post appointment for Mawla.
This move reflects ongoing administrative developments in New Jersey's highest court structure.
Key points
- Heidi Willis Currier appointed as new chief appellate judge by Chief Justice Rabner
- Position fills vacancy left by departing Judge Sumners
- Mawla named to deputy post in related judicial restructuring
- Part of New Jersey's appellate court leadership transition
- Decisions impact state's judicial administration and court operations
FAQ
- Who is Heidi Willis Currier?
- Heidi Willis Currier is the judge selected by Chief Justice Stuart Rabner to serve as chief appellate judge of New Jersey's court system, replacing Judge Sumners in this leadership role.
- What does the chief appellate judge do?
- The chief appellate judge oversees New Jersey's appellate division, managing court operations, judicial assignments, and administrative functions for the state's appellate court system.
- Who is Mawla in this announcement?
- Mawla has been named to a deputy post as part of the judicial leadership changes announced alongside Currier's appointment as chief appellate judge.
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