Christy N. Vitola nominated for Family Court commissioner emphasizes pro se experience and caseload management

Christy N. Vitola, nominated to be a commissioner of Delaware Family Court, told the Senate Executive Committee she was raised in Smyrna, graduated from Widener Law and has worked for eight years representing the Division of Child Support Services at the Department of Justice. "I am capable of handling a significant amount of cases each day diligently yet efficiently," she said.

Sen. Townsend and other senators asked how Vitola would manage the court's high-volume docket and assist pro se litigants. Vitola said much of her current work focuses on child support and related high-volume calendars. "I have about 12 to 20 plus cases scheduled to try and, often, pro se litigants," she said. She described using pre-hearing conferences and focused, time-limited meetings to narrow the relevant issues so hearings can proceed efficiently.

On child-support standards, Vitola said she applies the state's Melson formula and the governing laws; where parents can reach agreed solutions, she said negotiated settlements may better serve the child's interests. She told senators she aims to be thoughtful but "no-nonsense," to ensure parties have the opportunity to be heard while applying the law.

Vitola discussed handling occasional mathematical mistakes in calculations and the administrative steps available, including motions for reargument or administrative corrections for clerical errors. The committee concluded the appointment portion and moved to the legislative agenda; no confirmation vote appears in the transcript.