Judges Biographies

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  1. Judge Kavanagh

    Sean P. Kavanagh

    District Court Judge
    • Court Officer for the 16th District Court, 1982 to 1983
    • 16th District Court Magistrate, 1983 to 1986
    • Private Practice, 1983 to 2008
    • Livonia City Attorney, 1995 to 2008
    • Elected 16th District Court Judge in November, 2008
    • Married to Mary with three children, Carolyn, Shane, and Kayleigh

  2. Jim Jolly

    James J. Jolly

    District Court Judge
    • Elected 16th District Court Judge in November of 2024
    • Attorney representing clients in municipal matters, higher education, small business, and personal matters, 2008-2024
    • Assistant City Attorney for Westland, 2022-2024
    • Livonia City Council Member, 2016-2024
    • 16th District Court Magistrate, 2008-2015
    • 16th District Court Officer, 2007-2008 
    • I am active in Livonia and proud to have initiated Livonia’s Neighborhood Grant Program, spearheaded improvements to a walkable and bike-friendly Livonia, secured private funding for the all-ability playground at Bicentennial Park, and led the master planning process for Greenmead Historical Park.
    • I received my Juris Doctor from University of Detroit Mercy and my BA from Western Michigan University.
    • My wife and I have five amazing kids and are happy to share this community with so many great friends and neighbors.