On June 3, 2021, Governor Phil Murphy nominated Michael Noriega to serve as an Associate Justice on the New Jersey Supreme Court. If confirmed, Noriega would be the first Latino to serve on the state’s highest court.
Noriega currently serves as a judge on the Superior Court of New Jersey, where he has presided over criminal and civil cases for the past 10 years. Prior to his appointment to the bench, Noriega worked as a prosecutor in the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office and as a private practice attorney.
Noriega’s nomination has been met with praise from various organizations and individuals, including the Latino Action Network, who called it a “historic moment for Latinos in New Jersey.” The New Jersey State Bar Association also issued a statement in support of Noriega’s nomination, citing his “impeccable credentials and experience.”
If confirmed by the New Jersey Senate, Noriega would fill the seat vacated by Justice Jaynee LaVecchia, who retired in August 2020. Noriega’s nomination comes at a time when diversity and representation on the bench are being prioritized across the country.
In his announcement of Noriega’s nomination, Governor Murphy stated that Noriega “brings a wealth of experience and perspective to our state’s highest court.” Noriega’s background as a Latino immigrant and first-generation college graduate also adds to the diversity of experiences and perspectives represented on the court.
The New Jersey Supreme Court is composed of seven justices who are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate. The court is responsible for interpreting the state’s constitution and laws, as well as hearing appeals from lower courts.
Noriega’s nomination is currently pending before the Senate Judiciary Committee, which will hold a hearing to consider his qualifications before making a recommendation to the full Senate. If confirmed, Noriega would serve an initial seven-year term on the court, followed by a lifetime appointment if reappointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate.
Overall, Noriega’s nomination represents a significant step forward for diversity and representation on the New Jersey Supreme Court. As the state’s highest court, it is important that the bench reflects the diversity of the communities it serves, and Noriega’s nomination is a positive step in that direction.
