Comparato v. Schait

In this matrimonial matter, plaintiff seeks to disqualify the trial judge as well as defendant’s present and prior counsel, including an attorney who formerly served as the judge’s law clerk. The trial court and Appellate Division each denied plaintiffs requested relief. We affirm, except that we modify the Appellate Division’s judgment by directing that the former law clerk screen herself from any further involvement with this litigation.

I

Plaintiff Richard Comparato filed a complaint for divorce against defendant Rochelle Schait in May 1995. The parties tried the case before Judge James B.…