A New Type of Jurist for a New Age of Michigan Courts: How a Futurist Approach Has Guided Justice Welch as an Attorney, in the Community, and on the Bench

By Ravynne Gilmore, Court Relations Program Coordinator, Public Information Office, Michigan Supreme Court

Justice Elizabeth M. Welch

Michigan Supreme Court's newest justice, Elizabeth M. Welch, might be best described as the justice for the times. No, she's not a social media influencer with millions of followers; rather, she brings to the state’s highest bench a varied and successful record as an attorney, a remarkable set of life experiences, and passion for community service. Justice Welch reflects the times because of her willingness to embrace technology to get her work done and to stay connected with a blended family.