Judge Elizabeth “Ellie” Finn: A Champion for Domestic Violence Survivors in Arizona
Elizabeth “Ellie” Finn, a retired judge who served in Arizona courts for over 42 years, is a true advocate for domestic violence survivors. Her passion for justice and equality was instilled in her at a young age, as she witnessed her father, a civil rights lawyer, fight against discrimination in Arizona. This upbringing fueled Finn’s determination to make a difference in the world, leading her to a career focused on addressing issues such as domestic violence, mental illness, and homelessness.
Family Legacy of Legal Advocacy
Finn comes from a family of lawyers, with her mother, Ruth Finn, being one of the first women admitted to Arizona State University Law. Following in her family’s footsteps, Finn graduated from ASU Law in 1972 and initially worked at her father’s private practice before venturing into legal aid. Her dedication to public service and social justice was evident from the start of her career.
Impact on Arizona Laws
Throughout her tenure as a judge, Finn played a crucial role in shaping Arizona’s domestic violence laws. In the early 1990s, she met Sarah Buel, a domestic violence survivor and attorney, whose innovative ideas inspired Finn to create court-sponsored conferences on domestic violence for judges statewide. Finn also spearheaded the formation of a standing committee on the impact of domestic violence on the court, serving as its chair for six years.
One of Finn’s significant contributions was the writing of Arizona’s first benchbook for domestic violence, which was adopted by the Arizona Supreme Court in 1996. This comprehensive guide provided judges with the necessary tools to handle domestic violence cases effectively, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for survivors. Finn’s relentless advocacy for domestic violence survivors helped change the narrative surrounding these cases and ensured that survivors were given the attention and support they deserved.
Championing Mental Health Initiatives
In addition to her work on domestic violence, Finn also focused on addressing mental health issues within the justice system. In 2013, she established the Glendale Mental Health Court, a treatment court aimed at assisting individuals with mental illness and developmental disabilities in resolving their criminal cases. By working collaboratively with various stakeholders, including judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and mental health providers, Finn was able to create a more efficient and compassionate system for individuals with mental health needs.
Finn’s commitment to treating defendants with mental illness as individuals, rather than just case numbers, was evident in her approach to handling these cases. She prioritized connecting defendants with the necessary support services and resources to address their mental health needs effectively. This personalized approach not only led to better outcomes for individuals with mental illness but also helped reduce costs and improve efficiency within the justice system.
Tech Innovations for Protective Orders
In 2019, Finn took her advocacy a step further by spearheading the development of Arizona’s new online system for protective orders called AZPoint. As a self-described “tech geek,” Finn recognized the need for a more streamlined and accessible process for requesting protective orders. This innovative system has made it easier for individuals experiencing domestic violence to seek legal protection and access the resources they need to stay safe.
Despite facing personal challenges, including a battle with ovarian cancer, Finn continues to be a beacon of inspiration and resilience. Her dedication to public service and commitment to social justice have left a lasting impact on Arizona’s legal landscape. Through her tireless advocacy for domestic violence survivors and marginalized communities, Finn has embodied the true spirit of a champion for justice.
Conclusion
Judge Elizabeth “Ellie” Finn’s legacy as a champion for domestic violence survivors in Arizona is a testament to her unwavering dedication to social justice and equality. Her pioneering work in shaping Arizona’s domestic violence laws, establishing mental health initiatives, and implementing tech innovations for protective orders has transformed the legal landscape and improved outcomes for vulnerable populations. Finn’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of others serves as an inspiration to all who strive for a more just and equitable society.
