News Release - Mayor Evans Appoints LaToya Lee to Rochester City Court

City of Rochester

News Release

(Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022)—Mayor Malik D. Evans today announced the appointment of LaToya S. Lee as Rochester City Court judge. Under New York State Law, the Mayor of Rochester may appoint a new Rochester City Court judge when a vacancy occurs on that court.

“It is with great pride that I appoint LaToya Lee as Rochester’s next City Court judge,” said Mayor Evans. “Her strong communications and leadership skills, combined with her proven legal experience, make LaToya an outstanding choice for the Rochester City Court. I sincerely thank the members of the selection committee who helped identify and recommend LaToya Lee from among many highly qualified applicants for the role.”

“My promise to the people of Rochester is that I will decide cases fairly, impartially and free of political influence,” said Ms. Lee. “I have personally witnessed the impact that crime, violence and substance abuse have on city neighborhoods. It will be my focus to expand the Court’s rehabilitation offerings and to be a zealous advocate for justice. I look forward to serving our community.”

Ms. Lee, until the date of this appointment, served as Law Clerk to the Hon. Teresa D. Johnson and the Hon. Nicole D. Morris of Rochester City Court. She previously served as an Assistant Public Defender in the Monroe County Public Defender’s Office.

LaToya Lee was admitted to the N.Y. State Bar in 2013. She received her Juris Doctor degree cum laude from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School and earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Hilbert College. She is a member of the Rochester Black Bar Association and volunteers for the Urban League of Rochester and the Center for Youth.

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