Ten years on the bench.
Two decades as an attorney.
The only candidate with judicial experience.
Lisa Neilson served as a Family Court Judge from 2012 to 2022, presiding over cases involving children, families, and vulnerable individuals. On the bench, she applied the law, evaluated evidence, managed complex dockets, and made difficult decisions with fairness, integrity, and respect for every person who appeared before the court.
Her experience began long before she became a judge.
She began her legal career in the Oakland County Probate Court, first as a law clerk and later as staff attorney. She then entered private practice, where she represented both retained and court-appointed clients in family and probate matters, helping people through some of life’s most challenging legal circumstances.
Over more than two decades in the legal profession, Lisa has served the justice system from nearly every perspective.
Few candidates bring that depth and breadth of experience to the bench. Lisa’s experience was earned through years of service, responsibility, and decision-making — not observation. It is that proven experience that uniquely qualifies her to serve on the Oakland County Circuit Court.
The judge elected to this seat will hear cases that affect individuals, children and families.
These cases are often deeply personal, legally complex, and emotionally difficult. The decisions made in Family Court can have a lasting impact on families for years to come.
That Responsibility Requires Experience.
Now, Lisa Neilson is seeking election to Oakland County’s Family Court bench.
It is a return to judicial service by someone who has already done the work, assumed the responsibility, and earned the experience that only comes from serving as a judge.
She’s the Judge for the Job.
VOTE AUGUST 4
Follow the latest updates, endorsements, milestones, and news from the campaign.
Lisa Neilson is honored to receive the endorsement of Judge Adrienne Scruggs, who practiced before Neilson while serving as a Senior Staff Attorney with the Wayne County Friend of the Court. Judge Scruggs cited Neilson’s fairness, knowledge of the law, and judicial temperament based on her firsthand experience appearing before her in Family Court.
Judges Jacob Cunningham and Yasmine Poles have endorsed Lisa Neilson, bringing her total judicial endorsements to 42.
Lisa Neilson finished first with 110,948 votes, receiving 46.12% of the vote. Thank you for your support!
The Women Lawyers Association of Michigan awarded Lisa Neilson its highest rating in recognition of her judicial qualifications, integrity, and commitment to public service.
Lisa Neilson exhibits “exceptional qualities for judicial service, including exceptional legal ability, outstanding personal and professional integrity, and an interest in, and demonstrated commitment to, working to improve the administration of justice.”
`Lisa Neilson “possesses the highest capacity for distinguished judicial temperament, including courtesy, impartiality, and respect for all persons, the law, the judicial process, and for the dignity of the court.”
Lisa Neilson has “actively participated in charitable activities, community activities, mentoring, civic organizations, and professional bar organizations.”
Lisa Neilson has “consistently exhibited commitment to promoting access to justice for all and has a demonstrated record of advancing women in the legal profession.”
Sheriff Michael Bouchard’s leadership and lifelong dedication to keeping our communities safe reflect the values we share — integrity, accountability, and fairness. His support affirms Lisa Neilson’s commitment to a safer, stronger, and more just Oakland County.
The Women Lawyers Association of Michigan’s
Highest Rating
Lisa Neilson exhibits “exceptional qualities for judicial service, including exceptional legal ability, outstanding personal and professional integrity, and an interest in, and demonstrated commitment to, working to improve the administration of justice.”
Lisa Neilson “possesses the highest capacity for distinguished judicial temperament, including courtesy, impartiality, and respect for all persons, the law, the judicial process, and for the dignity of the court.”
Lisa Neilson has “actively participated in charitable activities, community activities, mentoring, civic organizations, and professional bar organizations.”
Lisa Neilson has “consistently exhibited commitment to promoting access to justice for all and has a demonstrated record of advancing women in the legal profession.”
Browse campaign materials highlighting Lisa’s experience, qualifications, and commitment to serving Oakland County.
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