Sen. Richard Blumenthal recognized probate courts across the state for staying open during the pandemic.

Blumenthal says it was impressive how court staff, from judges to clerks and administrators, continued to work in spite of the dangers.

Judge Lisa Wexler of the Westport and Weston District says probate courts perform a vital function, especially in crisis.

"We are the people that appoint conservators, and look at all the people in nursing homes that were affected by COVID, we are the people that help appoint a fiduciary when someone has passed away," says Wexler. "The thing that you need most in a crisis is for your local government to be working well. And our probate courts are in our towns and cities locally, we're elected by our communities. I'm just really proud of the job that we've been able to do during COVID; we've stayed open for the people."