Governor Appointed - Not Elected by the People
This official was appointed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm (D) in 2005 - not chosen through a public vote. They later won election in 2006 to retain the seat.
Hon. Curtis J. Bell
Presiding Judge, Civil/Probate Division
21
Years Served
2005
Since
6yr
Term Length
2030
Next Election
Public Opinion Poll
0 total votesBiography
Judge Curtis J. Bell is one of the longest-serving judges in Kalamazoo County, having taken the bench in 2005. He became Presiding Judge of the newly merged Civil/Probate Division in 2026 when the Circuit Court's Civil Division was consolidated under the Probate Court. With over 20 years of judicial experience, he brings deep institutional knowledge to the role. Previously served as Chief Judge of the 9th Circuit/Probate Court from 2014 to 2018.
Career Timeline
Presiding Judge, Civil/Probate Division (2026-present)
Probate Court Judge (2005-present)
Chief Judge, 9th Circuit/Probate Court (2014-2018)
Over 20 years on the bench
Campaign Finance & Funding
Campaign committee exists but detailed financial records not accessible. Endorsed by Kalamazoo County Democratic Party in 2024.
Endorsements
Appointed by Gov. Granholm (D) on Feb. 8, 2005
Campaign committee: 'Committee to Elect Curtis J Bell Judge' (ID #512665)
Detailed contribution data not available - MI SOS database inaccessible
Endorsed by Kalamazoo County Democratic Party in 2024
No PAC, AIPAC, or foreign lobby contributions found
Details
- Court
- Probate Court
- Division
- Civil/Probate
- Jurisdiction
- Civil cases, probate matters, estates, guardianships, conservatorships
- Court Address
- Kalamazoo County Courthouse, 227 W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
How They Got the Seat
- Method
- APPOINTED BY GOVERNOR
- Appointed By
- Gov. Jennifer Granholm (D)
- Appointment Year
- 2005
- Later Elected
- 2006
- Election Type
- Nonpartisan
- Term Length
- 6 years
- Next Election
- November 2030