About Judge Maria Mitchell
In 2022, Judge Maria Mitchell was appointed to serve Ramsey County and the State of Minnesota. She is a fourth-generation resident of St. Paul and has roots in the historic Rondo Neighborhood on her maternal side. During the pandemic, Judge Mitchell embraced changes that allowed residents to access the courts remotely, such as appearing in court via Zoom.
Judge Mitchell's Path
"My road to judgeship was not easy. As a public defender, I enjoyed working one-on-one with clients. I would celebrate their wins or sympathize with their loss. I have practiced public law for over 20 years. Over time my interest evolved to focus on becoming a judge.
The reality of being a judge is that you make the final decision between two attorneys arguing their cases or fellow residents representing themselves. In the courtroom I see people at their best and at their worst. People come to the court to resolve serious legal issues and to learn how the decision will affect their lives.
I applied for the office of district court judge to use my experience in working with the law and people to help our community reach resolutions of the important decisions that come before the court. Residents of Ramsey County deserve the best judicial system we can offer. In this role I have worked and will continue to work to improve how we serve the public."
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The Work
"For the past two years, I have had privilege of working for the residents of Ramsey County and the State of Minnesota. As a member of the Court Operations Advisory Work Group, we ensure that court forms are accessible and compliant with the law, making the court more accessible to those who are encountering the law. Additionally, I am a part of the Wellness Committee, which aims to address the well-being of our judicial officers by combating the isolation and stress that comes with working in the courts. It is important for us to remain healthy and bring our best selves to work as we serve people on their worst days."
Community
Service
"As an active resident of Ramsey County, I am deeply invested in the City of St. Paul. I attend community events, volunteer with law, college, and grade school students. I do that through my work as an adjunct law professor, tutor, mentor, and sponsor. My goal is to inspire girls, women, and all individuals aspire to this noble office. In my first two years, I was proud to win the prestigious Community Service Award from the Minnesota District Court Foundation, along with two other Judges. We lead a community group for Justice for Impacted Women, where we listen and build support networks to tackle issues that present challenges in their lives while attempting to heal emotional wounds. It is the people of Ramsey County who make this job rewarding, and I hope to continue serving them."
revelant professional history
Judge Maria Mitchell
District Judge
Judge Maria Mitchell is fully devoted to guaranteeing impartial and equitable legal process in all cases. She is resolute in her dedication to enforcing the law and benefiting the community.
Education:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) - University of Minnesota Law School
- Bachelors of Arts (B.A.)-Fisk University, Politcal Science
Experience:
Judge Mitchell has more than 20 years of legal experience and has worked in various areas of law, including Child Protection Criminal, Civil, Family Law, and Juvenile Law. Her extensive experience has provided her with expertise in a wide range of legal issues that may come before the court.
Honors & Awards:
Community Involvement:
Judge Mitchell is an active participant in community initiatives, where she promotes legal education and awareness in the metropolitan area. She has provided mentorship to young people, including youth, young adults, and law students.
Awards:
Community Service Award, Minnesota Judge's Foundation
President's Award, MABL
Chair's Award, National Bar Association
Mark Ponsolle Servant Leadership Award, Ramsey County
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Professional Memberships:
- Minnesota State Bar Association
- Ramsey County Bar Association
- Minnesota Women Lawyers
- Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers
- National Bar Association
- Infinity Project
Certifications:
Licensed to practice law in the State of Minnesota