'Go-to guy' gets chief clerk's job for New London Judicial District

David S. Gage, who says he likes to be known as a "go-to guy" for helping people navigate the court system, has been appointed chief clerk for the New London Judicial District.

The 49-year-old Lyme resident started working in the state court system in 1988, during his last semester of law school, and has never left. His first job was as a temporary assistant clerk earning $9 an hour.

In his new role, he will be paid $120,993 a year to supervise more than 60 employees and oversee recordkeeping, administrative and maintenance procedures in the district's four courthouses.

"If I earned this job, I earned it one phone call and one trip to the counter at a time," he said.

Gage replaces Jorene M. Couture, who retired in June 2011. One of 10 applicants for the position, Gage was named to the position following a selection process involving the judges who reside within New London County. His official start date is Jan. 27, though he has moved already into the chief clerk's office at the courthouse at 70 Huntington St.

Judge James J. Devine, chief court administrator for the New London Judicial District, said Gage has experience in the civil and family courts and has worked in the system in New London and Norwich.

"He's done an excellent job, not only with the staff, but with the public and the bar," said Devine.

Gage, who grew up in Hadlyme, attended Eastern Connecticut State University, majoring in history and political science, and Quinnipiac University law School. He is a licensed attorney.

Off-duty, Gage, who is divorced, keeps busy with his two daughters, who are 5 and 8 years old.

k.florin@theday.com