Judge Sean P. Kavanagh: Professional Background and Legal Expertise

The Hon. Sean P. Kavanagh is a judge for the 16th District Court of Michigan. He was elected to the bench on November 4, 2008, and re-elected in 2014 and 2020.

Kavanagh earned a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in 1980. He then completed a J.D. at Michigan State University College of Law in 1983. While in law school, Kavanagh worked as a court officer for the 16th District Court.

He is admitted to practice in Michigan (1983), Pennsylvania (1991), Virginia (1993), and West Virginia (2002).

After graduating from law school, Kavanagh entered into private practice. He worked in that capacity until his election to the bench, supplementing his practice with service as a magistrate for the 16th District Court (1983 to 1986) and a city attorney for the City of Livonia (1995 to 2008).

Kavanagh and his wife, Mary, have three children.