The Delaware Court of Chancery has expanded its bench to seven magistrates with the recent appointment of Jessie R. Benavides. This marks the largest magistrate bench in the court’s history, reflecting its commitment to managing an increasing caseload effectively.
Benavides brings a diverse background in civil litigation, including family law, estate matters, guardianships, and personal injury cases. Prior to her appointment, she served as an associate at Parkowski, Guerke & Swayze for five years, where she litigated cases across various Delaware courts, including the Court of Chancery, Superior Court, Family Court, and Justice of the Peace Court.
The Court of Chancery has been progressively expanding its magistrate bench to address its growing workload. In January 2025, Selena E. Molina was elevated to the role of Senior Magistrate Judge, becoming the first to hold this title. Molina has been with the court since January 2019, handling cases on the magistrate docket and assisting with administrative tasks. ([law.com](https://www.law.com/delbizcourt/2025/01/02/meet-the-delaware-court-of-chancerys-first-senior-magistrate-judge/?utm_source=openai))
Other recent appointments include Danielle Gibbs, who joined the court in December 2024. Gibbs previously served as Chief Legal Counsel to Governor John Carney and as Chief Deputy Attorney General at the Delaware Department of Justice. Her chambers are located in the Leonard L. Williams Justice Center in Wilmington. ([wgmd.com](https://www.wgmd.com/honorable-danielle-gibbs-joins-de-court-of-chancery-as-magistrate-in-chancery/?utm_source=openai))
Christian Douglas Wright was appointed as a Magistrate in Chancery in November 2024. Before joining the court, Wright served as the Director of Impact Litigation at the Delaware Department of Justice and spent 17 years as a corporate litigator at Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP. ([courts.delaware.gov](https://courts.delaware.gov/chancery/judges?utm_source=openai))
The expansion of the magistrate bench underscores the court’s dedication to maintaining efficiency and upholding its reputation as a leading forum for corporate governance litigation. With the addition of Benavides, the Court of Chancery continues to enhance its capacity to address complex legal matters effectively.