Meet Karen

Karen has worked in our local courts for twenty years, and is currently serving as a
District Court Judge. 

Karen made the decision to run for District Court Judge because of her dedication to the people of Jefferson County and as Judge her dedication has only grown more fervent. 

She has made certain that all people who enter the court system, both the victims and the accused, are treated fairly and with respect.  She upholds the law and ensures her courtroom is run efficiently and fairly.  Karen works to improve access to the Court system and the District Court schedule. She continues to support Restorative Justice, strives to expand social programs for youth that are involved in the Juvenile Justice system and serves as one of the Teen Court Judges for the Court Designated Worker Teen Court Diversion Program. She is a supporter of reasonable bail and bail alternatives and follows the law so that all factors, including ability to pay is part of the discussion. Karen serves as a volunteer Amnesty Court Judge, clearing up old warrants, and has presided over hundreds of cases on the adult criminal dockets, juvenile court and probate dockets. Karen assisted in the inception of the new Unlawful Camping Court and serves as a presiding judge on this docket which is focused on getting housing, treatment, and other necessary services to our houseless citizens. 

Karen has practiced in every area of District Court, as well as Circuit, Family and Federal Courts and has extensive jury and bench trial experience at all state levels.  She is a graduate of the University of Louisville’s College of Arts and Sciences and Louis D. Brandeis School of Law.  Karen is proud to call Louisville her home.

As a law student she externed with the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, in the child abuse and domestic violence unit and worked at the Center for Women and Families as a victim’s advocate. Upon graduation she joined the Public Defender’s Office, where she would ultimately begin to build her career as an attorney.