Judge Edward Merrigan, a two-star general, retires from U.S. Army after 31 years
Judge Edward H. Merrigan, Jr., presides over the 17th Circuit’s Veterans Court, which he founded to help eligible veterans suffering from substance abuse or mental health issues. Photo By: DA Photo Studio
Broward Circuit Judge Edward H. Merrigan, Jr., a decorated two-star general in the U.S. Army, officially retired from the military this month after 31 years of service.
“Being able to give back to my community and the country was a great opportunity for me. It is something I really loved,” said Judge Merrigan, who oversees a felony criminal division in Ft. Lauderdale.
Judge Merrigan’s military career is wide-ranging. He enlisted in the Army in 1994. In 1999, he began his Army Reserve career, initially serving as the international law officer of the 478th Civil Affairs Battalion in Perrine. His tenure in the Army included a tour in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II.
“All of us in the 17th Judicial Circuit have great appreciation and admiration for his service to our nation and serving our state,” said Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips.
Judge Merrigan most recently served as commander of the 84th Training Command in Ft. Knox, Kentucky, sometimes traveling around the country as frequently as three weekends per month.
Judge Merrigan also presides in Veterans Court, a 17th Judicial Circuit problem-solving court he founded in 2012, which assists eligible veterans who are suffering from substance abuse or mental health issues. To date, 1,000 veterans have successfully completed the program and had their charges dropped, he noted.
“It’s a great opportunity to help veterans. It helps them get back on their feet and become productive members of society,” Judge Merrigan said.
Among his many decorations and awards are the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service, Army Commendation, and Humanitarian Service medals.
Judge Merrigan was appointed to the bench in 2009 by Gov. Charlie Crist. He was elected in 2010. In 2014, Gov. Rick Scott appointed him a circuit judge. He was subsequently elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2022.
Judge Merrigan earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Lenoir-Rhyne College, a master’s degree in tax law from Emory University, a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College, and a JD from Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law.
