Judge Freier recognized for legal and community service at ‘Women of Distinction’ event

June 21, 2023 Rob Abruzzese

Assemblyman Brian Cunningham presents the 2023 Women of Distinction Award to Justice Rachel 'Ruchie' Freier in recognition of her tireless dedication to the legal profession and the Hasidic community. Photo courtesy of Assemblymember Cunningham’s Office.

Share this:

Judge Rachel “Ruchie” Freier has been awarded the “2023 Women of Distinction Award” by State Assemblymember Brian Cunningham in recognition of her contributions to her community and the legal profession.

Freier, a Hasidic Jewish woman, is known for breaking barriers within her community and the broader legal community. In 2016, she was elected as a Civil Court Judge in Kings County, marking her as the first Hasidic woman to be elected to public office in the United States. She was eventually appointed as an acting supreme court justice and is now running for a permanent spot in the Kings County Supreme Court.

Prior to her judgeship, Freier maintained law offices in Brooklyn and Monroe, NY and was a licensed attorney in New York, New Jersey, and Washington, DC.

In addition to her legal career, Freier has dedicated herself to serving her community. She is the founder of Chasdei Devorah, Inc., an organization committed to advocating for education and opportunities for young people in the Chassidic community. She also co-founded Ezras Nashim, a non-profit all-female EMT Volunteer Corps dedicated to providing life-saving care for women in the Chassidic community. Under her leadership, Ezras Nashim won the NYS Department of Health’s EMS Agency of the Year Award in 2017 and the NYC Regional Council Agency of the Year award in 2018.

Justice Freier’s career journey is an inspiring story of persistence and ambition. Starting her college education at age 30, she became an attorney at 40 and was elected as a judge at 50. As a mother of six, she attributes her success to the support of her family and community, her own perseverance, and her commitment to her values.

Justice Freier’s recent recognition reflects her dedication and commitment to public service and community involvement. She is well-respected and continues to be an inspiration to her community and others who aim to break barriers in their respective fields.

Her tireless advocacy and service have not gone unnoticed. “Justice Rachel ‘Ruchie’ Freier is worthy of my highest respect and esteem,” said Assemblyman Cunningham in his proclamation. The proclamation was presented during the 2023 Women of Distinction event, marking another milestone in Justice Freier’s career.

The award adds to the many honors and recognitions she has received, including being hailed as “the Hasidic superwoman of night court” by The New York Times.