Third
Circuit Court of Michigan to Dedicate Jury Assembly Room in Honor
of Judge Mary Beth Kelly
Detroit, MI — The Third Circuit Court of Michigan has renamed its Jury Assembly Room on the 3rd floor at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in honor of Judge Mary Beth Kelly—an accomplished jurist, former Michigan Supreme Court Justice, and the first woman to serve as Chief Judge of the state’s largest circuit court. The room is
now known as the Chief Judge Mary Beth Kelly Jury Assembly Room. A
dedication event was held in Judge Kelly’s honor on March 13 and included
remarks from Michigan Supreme Court Justice Brian K. Zahra, Third Circuit Court
Chief Judge Edward Ewell, Third Circuit Court Chief Judge Pro Tem and other
members of the legal community. |  |
“Judge
Kelly is someone I have known and respected for many years,” said Chief Judge
Ewell. “Her depth of judicial knowledge, thoughtful approach to the law, and
steady leadership have had a lasting impact on this Court and the broader legal
community. It is fitting that we recognize her contributions in a permanent and
meaningful way.”
Judge Mary
Beth Kelly’s career reflects decades of service marked by leadership, legal
excellence, and a deep commitment to justice. She currently serves on the Third
Circuit Court bench and previously made history as the Court’s first female
Chief Judge, an achievement that represents a significant milestone in the
evolution of judicial leadership in Wayne County. Her tenure as Chief Judge was
defined by a focus on court operations, access to justice, and strengthening
the institution’s role in serving the public.
Prior to
joining the Third Circuit Court, Judge Kelly served as a Justice of the
Michigan Supreme Court, where she participated in decisions shaping state
jurisprudence on a wide range of civil and criminal matters. Her legal career
also includes substantial experience in private practice, where she developed a
reputation for rigorous legal analysis, professionalism, and ethical advocacy.
“The
judiciary is built on the collective efforts of those who serve with integrity
and dedication,” said Judge Mary Beth Kelly. “I am deeply honored by this
recognition and grateful to have had the opportunity to serve alongside so many
outstanding colleagues committed to upholding the rule of law.”
The
renaming of the Chief Judge Mary Beth Kelly Jury Assembly Room in her honor
reflects not only her individual accomplishments, but also the broader
significance of her leadership as a trailblazer for women in the judiciary. As
the first woman to lead the Third Circuit Court, Judge Kelly helped pave the
way for greater representation and inclusion within Michigan’s legal system.
This
dedication serves as a lasting tribute to her impact on the Court, the legal
community, and the citizens of Wayne County who rely on the judiciary for
fairness and justice.
Our Mission:
We serve the community by providing accessible and equal justice for all.
Our Vision: We are an exemplary and innovative Court leading with integrity in providing justice and public service.
For more information, visit our website www.3rdcc.org.
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