FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 16, 2025
Contact: Michael Scott, Public Information Officer
Phone: 313-218-3575 or by email at
Michael.scott@3rdcc.orgChief Judge Patricia Perez Fresard Honored with Latino Heritage Award by Detroit Lions
Detroit, MI -The Honorable Patricia Perez Fresard, Chief Judge of the Third Judicial Circuit of Michigan, was recognized with the Latino Heritage Award by the Detroit Lions organization on Sunday, September 14, during the team’s home game against the Chicago Bears at Ford Field.
Chief Judge Fresard was presented with the award in celebration of Latino Heritage Month, honoring her leadership, professional excellence, and longstanding dedication to the Detroit community. In recognition of her community work, the Lions donated $2,000 to local nonprofit Love One Another. The Detroit Lions’ Latino Heritage Award is part of the NFL’s ongoing commitment to celebrating cultural heritage and spotlighting leaders who inspire positive change.
As the first Hispanic Chief Judge of Michigan’s largest trial court, Chief Judge Fresard has been a trailblazer in the legal profession. She has tried more than 500 criminal felony and civil cases in 25-plus years as a judge and was instrumental in establishing Wayne County’s Drug Court.
Chief Judge Fresard is active in the Wayne County community, sitting on the board of directors for La Sed, a non-profit agency serving Hispanics and residents of Southwest Detroit, the Detroit Bar Association Foundation, and the Mediation Tribunal.
Chief Judge Fresard annually supports the efforts of Love One Another in providing Easter baskets that bring joy to children in underserved families throughout Wayne County. These Easter baskets are distributed to various foodbanks, shelters and diverse afterschool programs, and managed by such charities as Las Sed, Ser Metro and Hispanic Development Corporation.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Detroit Lions,” said Chief Judge Fresard. “The Latino Heritage Award reflects the strength and contributions of our community, and I am grateful to stand alongside so many others who are working to make a positive difference in Detroit and beyond.”
About the Third Judicial Circuit
The Third Judicial Circuit of Michigan is the largest circuit court in the state, with 60 judges and three operating divisions. It has jurisdiction over civil, criminal, and family matters arising in Wayne County. Learn more at www.3rdcc.org.