Hot Bench Shakes Up The Courtroom: Judge Corriero's Exit & New Faces!
Is the gavel about to fall for the last time on one of daytime television's most familiar faces? Judge Michael Corriero, a mainstay of the syndicated court show "Hot Bench" since 2016, is preparing to step down, leaving behind a legacy forged in the fires of real-life legal battles.
The legal landscape of daytime television is shifting. The syndicated court show "Hot Bench," a fixture of weekday afternoons, has announced a significant change. As the program approaches its 2,000th episode, the longest-serving judge, Michael Corriero, is set to depart at the conclusion of the current eleventh season. Corriero's tenure on "Hot Bench" began in 2016, and his presence has been a constant for many viewers.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael A. Corriero |
| Born | 1943 |
| Profession | American Prosecutor, Television Personality, Judge |
| Known For | Judge on the panel court show "Hot Bench" |
| Education | Information Not Available in Provided Text |
| Career Highlights |
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| Estimated Net Worth (2024) | $2.7 million |
| Social Service | founded one of New Yorks oldest and respected social service agencies, the families rising project in 2012 which is run by the sisters of charity |
| External Reference | CBS News - Hot Bench |
The show, which returned for its ninth season on September 12, 2022, first introduced its audience to a panel format, bringing together three judges to hear cases. For the initial two seasons, the bench was presided over by Judge Tanya Acker, Judge Larry Bakman, and Justice Patricia DiMango, formerly of the New York Supreme Court in Brooklyn. Judge Michael Corriero joined the panel in the third season, replacing Bakman, and has been a pivotal figure ever since.
The departure of Judge Corriero marks a significant shift for "Hot Bench." The show's format, featuring three judges deliberating and delivering rulings on small claims cases, has become a staple of daytime television. Audiences have grown accustomed to the dynamics of the panel, and the judges' individual styles and legal philosophies have become a key part of the show's appeal. The show has been syndicated, ruling daytime courtroom television weekdays.
Filling the void left by Corriero will be trial attorney Judge Daniel Mentzer, joining the current panel of Judge Yodit Tewolde and Judge Rachel Juarez for Season 12. The addition of Mentzer, alongside the continuing presence of Judges Tewolde and Juarez, promises a fresh perspective and new dynamic on the show, while the audience has shown their interest. Judge Rachel Juarez and Judge Yodit Tewolde are already familiar faces, having joined the panel alongside Judge Michael Corriero. They also saw themselves on a new digital billboard in Times Square and talked about their work.
The legal world of "Hot Bench" doesn't just exist within the confines of the courtroom; it also extends into the lives of the people involved. According to the shows producers, litigants are compensated $35 per day for each of their tapings. This compensation acknowledges the time and effort required to participate in the show. Holding the gavels and hearing real small claims cases are Judges Yodit Tewolde, Rachel Juarez and Michael Corriero
Michael Corriero's career, however, extends beyond the realm of television. Before gracing the screens of CBS, Corriero dedicated 28 years to the legal profession, including service as a judge and criminal defense lawyer within the criminal courts of New York State. During his tenure, he also served as an acting State Supreme Court Justice, presiding over Manhattans Youth Part for 16 years, an experience that undoubtedly shaped his perspective on the cases he would later hear on "Hot Bench." He served as a judge on the United States Magistrate Court in the Southern District of New York and later became an assistant US attorney. Corriero turned in his robes last year to become executive.
In addition to his legal career, Corriero has also demonstrated a commitment to community service. In 2012, he founded the Families Rising Project, a social service agency in New York. This organization, run by the Sisters of Charity, underscores his dedication to addressing societal issues and supporting those in need. Corriero is also the founder and executive director of the New York Center for Juvenile Justice, further illustrating his commitment to helping the community.
The legacy of "Hot Bench" and Judge Michael Corriero will be one of fairness and the ability to engage with the audience. The show has provided a platform for everyday people to have their cases heard, bringing a fresh perspective on the legal system. From a historical perspective, the shows has been around for more than 2,000 episodes. The program's continued success is a testament to its engaging format and the diverse viewpoints of its judges. The viewers are connected to a variety of cases by the judges.
As "Hot Bench" prepares for its next chapter, the departure of Judge Corriero represents the end of an era. The show is a daytime success. His influence will certainly be remembered.
