August 2025 Member Spotlight:
Hon. Brenda M. Freedman

This month, the Minority Bar Association of Western New York has been pleased to spotlight Hon. Brenda M. Freedman.

Judge Freedman, who has been serving our community as a New York State, Erie County Family Court Judge, handles both the Youth Part and the Juvenile Delinquency part for Erie County as well as matters of child abuse/neglect, domestic violence, custody/visitation, child support violations and contested paternity.

An outstanding jurist, Judge Freedman listens attentively, applies the law fairly and makes sound decisions in a timely manner. She brings both legal acuity and compassion to the bench.

Her Hard Work Extends Outside of the Courtroom

Judge Freedman was appointed the lead judge to implement the Raise the Age legislation in the 8 counties of WNY, and to represent the court system on the state-wide task force.

She was appointed by the Governor as one of only two judges in the state to serve on the NYS Juvenile Justice Advisory Group (“JJAG”), which appropriates over $2 million in federal funds for juvenile justice programs.

Supporting Youth and Families

Judge Freedman has also created new local programs to support youth and families in WNY, including the very successful Restorative Justice program, and the Youth Empowerment Program which celebrates successful youth where Judge Freedman brings Bills players in as a reward, as well as others.

Prior to her election on the bench in 2015, Judge Freedman was a specially appointed Court Attorney Referee hearing divorces and family matters, a law clerk to a Supreme Court Judge and a practicing attorney since 1989.

Accolades Include Distinguished Alumnus Award & More

Judge Freedman has won numerous awards, including the prestigious Liberty Bell Award from the Bar Association of Erie County (2020), the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Buffalo Law Review (2023), and the Whatever It Takes Award, MST Services (2018).