Delaware lawyer takes on new role

The Delaware Court of Chancery welcomed a familiar face as its 21st chancellor.

Andre G. Bouchard was sworn into office on Friday, just one week after the state commemorated the 60th anniversary of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling in the Brown vs. Board of Education case.

One of the country’s premier corporate law practitioners, Bouchard was joined by family, friends and colleagues inside New Castle County Courthouse for the ceremony. Gov. Jack Markell and Sen. Tom Carper were also in attendance.

“I am truly honored,” said Bouchard, who will serve a 12-year term.

The Delaware Court of Chancery consists of one chancellor and four vice chancellors, all nominated by the governor. Bouchard succeeds the Honorable Leo E. Strine, Jr.

In February, Strine was sworn in as Chief Justice of the Delaware Supreme Court.

Markell, who nominated Bouchard, observed that the Delaware Court of Chancery played a significant role in the Brown vs. Board of Education case, which included lawsuits from several states, including Delaware.

At that time, the Court of Chancery in Delaware ruled in support of desegregated schools. According to Markell, the case “reminds us of the importance of independent judiciary.”

Gov. Markell expressed that the Court of Chancery provides a fair, consistent and neutral administration of justice and for that reason, Bouchard is the right person for the job.

“His experience establishing and growing his own small business as founder of his law firm, as well as his long career before the Court of Chancery, will give him a special appreciation for the work of the court and the many and varied litigants who would appear before him in his new role,” Markell said after nominating Bouchard.

“I’ve been blessed to practice law in this state for 28 years,” Bouchard said. “I will work hard each day as your chancellor.”