Justice Maria Elena Cruz: A Groundbreaking Appointment to the Arizona Supreme Court

In a historic move, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has appointed Judge Maria Elena Cruz as the newest justice on the Arizona Supreme Court, making her the first Latina and Black justice in the court’s history. Cruz’s selection also reflects a broader movement toward ensuring that the Arizona Supreme Court is more reflective of the state’s demographic diversity. As the first Latina and Black justice in the court’s history, Cruz is breaking barriers and becoming a symbol of progress for underrepresented communities.

Raised in Yuma, Arizona, Cruz understands the challenges faced by rural communities. As the only member of the Arizona Supreme Court from rural Arizona, she will bring a unique perspective that is deeply rooted in her experience as both a lawyer and a member of an underrepresented group.

A Career Dedicated to Justice and Service
Maria Elena Cruz has spent over two decades in the legal field, gaining invaluable experience that spans several judicial roles. She started her career in YEAR as a law clerk and went on to serve as a prosecutor, defense attorney, and judge across various courts. Most recently, she was a sitting judge on the Arizona Court of Appeals, appointed by then-Governor Doug Ducey.. Cruz has experience as a sitting judge pro-tem for the Cocopah Indian Tribe and as a Superior Court Judge in Yuma County. 20 years of experience has provided her with a broad legal perspective and a deep understanding of the state’s legal system.

Championing Access to Justice
One of Cruz’s primary goals as a justice is to make the work of the Arizona Supreme Court more understandable and accessible to Arizonans. As she recently noted in an interview, “Because these decisions affect people in a very direct way, it is important that we don’t leave it up to others to give meaning to the work that we’re doing.” By demystifying the court’s work, Cruz aims to foster greater public engagement with the legal system, ensuring that all Arizonans, regardless of their background, have access to the justice they deserve.

Her commitment to accessibility is not just about simplifying legal jargon; it’s about removing the barriers that often prevent marginalized communities from fully understanding or engaging with the legal process. Cruz has expressed a deep commitment to addressing the challenges faced by those who are marginalized due to their race, gender, or socioeconomic status, and she aims to use her platform to break down these barriers.

A Court Reflecting Arizona’s Diversity
Cruz’s appointment comes at a time when Arizona’s courts are receiving increased attention both nationally and internationally. As the Arizona Supreme Court grapples with high-profile cases, the addition of Cruz provides an opportunity for the court to better reflect the diversity of the state. Cruz’s appointment as the first Latina and Black justice is an important milestone for the state.

Her perspective as a woman of color, raised in a working-class immigrant family, brings a fresh lens to the court’s decision-making process. As Cruz herself stated, “It’s a source of incredible pride and honor to be the first Latina on our Supreme Court.”

A True Judge  for the People
Throughout her career, Cruz has been driven by a sense of service and a desire to give back to her community. She grew up in a family that valued hard work and service, and this sense of duty has guided her every step of the way. From her early days working as a prosecutor in Yuma to her role as a judge on the Court of Appeals, Cruz has always been dedicated to ensuring justice for the people of Arizona.

Now, as a justice on the Arizona Supreme Court, Cruz remains committed to ensuring that the legal system works for everyone, especially those who have been historically marginalized. Her personal understanding of the barriers faced by many Arizonans, combined with her deep respect for the law, will allow her to apply the law fairly and with an eye toward making the justice system more accessible to all.

A Lasting Legacy
Governor Katie Hobbs’ appointment of Judge Maria Elena Cruz to the Arizona Supreme Court is a milestone that will be remembered for generations to come. Her appointment reflects Hobbs’ commitment to diversity, inclusion, and fairness in Arizona’s legal system.

As Cruz begins her tenure on the Supreme Court, it’s clear that she is more than just a historic figure — she’s a dedicated public servant with a vision for a more equitable and accessible justice system. With her experience, background, and commitment to fairness, Justice Maria Elena Cruz is poised to make a lasting impact on Arizona’s legal landscape.