She's outspoken, entertaining and determined to deliver justice for the oppressed. She's Judge Maria Lopez. Judge Maria Lopez brings back her dynamic persona, "hard knocks" perspective and no-nonsense approach for a second season of the half-hour syndicated courtroom series, Judge Maria Lopez.
Her quick wit, passionate demeanor and "tell it like it is" candor connects with viewers of all ages and diverse backgrounds, providing daytime television with a refreshing approach to the courtroom genre.
Throughout her career on the bench, Judge Lopez has always fought for the rights of the underprivileged, taking stands and handing down decisions that were strict, yet compassionate and creative. She embodies the American dream -- an immigrant pioneer who overcame unimaginable odds to climb to the top of the legal system.
Born in Havana, she was just eight when her family escaped the violent revolution to start over in Miami. Battling poverty and hardship, young Maria managed to learn English in just three months, and eventually went on to pursue a future fighting for the underdog.
Inspired by strong moral values instilled in her by her father, Judge Lopez went on to graduate from prestigious Smith College and Boston University Law School, and began her career as a legal services lawyer representing civil matters for disadvantaged, underprivileged, and marginalized members of society. From 1980 to 1987, Judge Lopez served as Assistant Attorney General in the Civil Rights Division of the Massachusetts Attorney General's office. Continuing her passion to deliver justice for the oppressed, Judge Lopez served as Counsel to the Office for Refugees and Immigrants enforcing the state’s Civil Rights laws through 1988.
In 1988, Judge Lopez made legal history as the first Latina appointed to the bench in Massachusetts when she was selected as a District Court Judge by Governor Michael Dukakis. Judge Lopez continued make her mark on history as the first Latina to be appointed to the Massachusetts Superior Court in 1993.
A serious and respected jurist, Judge Lopez was known for her no-nonsense approach on the bench and for handing down creative, compassionate and controversial sentences. She once required a man who killed his friend in a boating accident to build a memorial to his victim.
Lopez currently resides in Boston with her husband and two sons.
