Honorable Laura E. Polizzi

Judge Polizzi was appointed to the bench of the 52-3 District Court in May 2024 and elected in November 2024.  She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Relations from Oakland University and her Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School.  She practiced law in a wide range of areas, including domestic relations, business, real estate, juvenile, and criminal matters.  Judge Polizzi regularly opens her courtroom to students to view court proceedings, host mock trials, or moot court. Judge Polizzi is frequently a guest speaker at events and schools in the community.

Judge Polizzi received the Joan Young Judicial Excellence Award from the Women’s Bar Association.  She was also recognized as one of Oakland County’s Top 40 Under 40 and a Super Lawyers, Michigan Rising Star, from 2018-2024. Judge Polizzi was honored as a 2025 Legacy Leader by the Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan. Thomas M. Cooley Law School also awarded Judge Polizzi with a Leadership Achievement Award.

Judicial Leadership and Initiatives

• Veterans Treatment Court: Presiding Judge Laura E. Polizzi

In August 2024, Judge Polizzi implemented the first Veterans Treatment Court at the 52-3 District Court. This specialty court assists veterans struggling with mental health and substance use disorders by addressing the underlying causes of offending behavior. The program aims to keep veterans out of jail for nonviolent offenses through structured counseling and mentorship.

• Operation Drive: Presiding Judge Laura E. Polizzi

In May 2025, Judge Polizzi launched Operation Drive at the 52-3 District Court to help defendants resolve issues with their driving records. The program provides attorney assistance and guidance to help individuals restore their driver’s license.

Professional Memberships and Leadership

• Treasurer, Michigan District Court Judges Association – Oakland County
• National Association of Women Judges (Member since 2024)
• Italian American Bar Association of Michigan
• Executive in Residence, Oakland University School of Business
• Life Fellow, Oakland County Bar Foundation
• Oakland County Bar Association
• Oakland County Community Corrections Advisory Board (2026)
• Oakland County Bar Association Program Advisory Board (2026–2028)
• Women Lawyers Association of Michigan – State Board Director
  (Regional President: 2020–2021)
• Michigan Association of Treatment Court Professionals
• State Bar of Michigan Representative Assembly (2019-2024)
• State Bar of Michigan Character and Fitness Committee: 2023-2025
• Macomb County Bar Association
• Rochester Bar Association