Central Falls Native Elizabeth Ortiz Appointed as City’s First Latina Municipal Court Judge
Central Falls Native Elizabeth Ortiz Appointed as City’s First Latina Municipal Court Judge
Central Falls, RI – Mayor James A. Diossa announced today that Attorney Elizabeth Ortiz has been appointed as Municipal Court Judge. Ortiz will be the first Latina appointed to this position in the history of Central Falls.
“Elizabeth Ortiz is a talented attorney who has proven throughout her legal career that she is well positioned for this important role,” said Mayor James A. Diossa. “I am honored to have appointed the city’s first ever Latina Municipal Court Judge and believe that our city is a place where women and individuals who have been historically marginalized, can truly achieve anything. She will be a great judge and a terrific role model.”
Central Falls native Ortiz brings over 14 years of experience as a law professional that stretches from her time as a paralegal to opening her own law firm in June of 2011. She has been working as a solo practitioner, representing clients in the Rhode Island Family Courts as well as the Massachusetts Probate and Family Courts since starting her firm and was appointed Guardian Ad Litem to represent the best interests of children in Rhode Island Family Court proceedings.
Ortiz has been a part of the Adjunct Faculty of the Community College of Rhode Island teaching Law of Contracts, Constitutional Law and Introduction to Paralegal Studies to students majoring in Paralegal Studies, Law Enforcement and General Studies since 2012. Previously, she spent almost five years working as a paralegal for several prominent Rhode Island law firms.
Ortiz earned a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies from Roger Williams University in 2007 and then went on to obtain her Doctorate degree at Roger Williams University School of Law graduating Cum Laude.
Elizabeth Ortiz’s appointment comes on the heels of Maria Rivera’s election as the first Latina City Council President of Central Falls.
“I am proud to be a part of a city that supports and promotes inclusion,” said Council President Maria Rivera. “Having a judge in Central Falls that can relate to our community is a big step. Elizabeth Ortiz is an inspiration to the community she grew up in and I am confident she will judge and serve Central Falls residents fairly.”
On Monday, February 4th, Mayor James A. Diossa will administer the oath of office to Elizabeth Ortiz. The public is invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony, which will take place in the Central Falls City Council Chambers at 5 p.m.