Julie Gafkay has been appointed judge in Saginaw County’s 10th Circuit Court, announced by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The vacancy is created by the retirement of Janet Boes.
Gafkay has owned a local law firm for the past 20 years specializing in civil rights, employment discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation, Whistleblowers’ Protection Act, and personal injury.
In law school, Gafkay dreamed of one day becoming a judge, after taking a summer course taught by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The Justice was an inspiration to Gafkay, and words of liberty and freedom for all resonated with her. She promises to protect the liberty and freedom of everyone who comes before her.
She currently resides in Saginaw Township with her husband and two children. Her family chose Saginaw County as their home over 25 years ago, living in Frankenmuth for over 20 years. Gafkay has been actively involved in many community organizations and boards over the years in Saginaw and Frankenmuth.
She has worked as an adjunct professor at Saginaw Valley State University and an instructor in employment law at the National Business Institute, and she has served as president of the Saginaw County Bar Association and Women Lawyers Association of Michigan.
Gafkay has been honored by the Saginaw County Bar for her community service, and most notably by the State Bar of Michigan with the Champion of Justice award.
She attained her bachelor’s degree from James Madison College at Michigan State University and juris doctorate from Whittier Law School.
Gafkay’s statement: “I thank Governor Whitmer for making a career-long dream come true. I will respect and fairly apply the law to everyone who comes into my courtroom. I understand what an honor and privilege I have been given to serve, and promise to make the Governor and the people of Saginaw County proud of my appointment to the Saginaw County Circuit Court.”
Whitmer’s action this week fills the remainder of Janet Boes’ term, beginning May 15 through New Years 2025. The 10th Circuit seat will be up for election in fall 2024.
