LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Elizabeth T. Clement announced on Wednesday that she will step down from her position no later than April 30, 2025. The decision marks the end of her leadership at the state’s highest court, where she has served since her appointment in November 2017.
In a statement released to the public, Clement shared her appreciation for the opportunity to lead the Michigan Supreme Court, stating that it had been an honor to continue the Court’s tradition of fairness, independence, and commitment to the rule of law. “I am thankful to my colleagues for their support and friendship, as well as for their willingness to seek common ground in serving the people of Michigan,” Clement said.
Clement was appointed to the Michigan Supreme Court in 2017 and was subsequently elected to a full term during the 2018 general election. She was selected unanimously by her colleagues to serve as Chief Justice in November 2022. Her leadership role was reaffirmed in re-election bids in both January 2023 and January 2025.
In her statement, Clement shared plans for her future, emphasizing a continued focus on promoting unity and enhancing the impact of data in improving people’s lives. “My plan is to continue working to find ways to bring people together, to put data to work, and to make a difference in the lives of people so that interactions with our justice system result in safer communities and stronger families,” Clement wrote.
Throughout her time on the Court, Clement has worked extensively on initiatives to improve the state’s juvenile justice system. She served as the Court’s co-liaison to the State Court Administrative Office’s Department of Child Welfare Services, which supports juvenile courts in matters such as child protective proceedings, foster care, and adoption. Under her leadership, the Court has made strides in enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of the justice system. Clement has also championed efforts to improve data collection and analysis, which has helped create a statewide system to better serve Michigan’s local trial courts.
Clement’s tenure was marked by a deep commitment to juvenile justice reform, with efforts aimed at ensuring all youth receive the support they need for success. “SCAO has become a force for good toward achieving our shared goal of a justice system that works better for everyone,” she added in her statement, referring to the State Court Administrative Office.
As Clement prepares to step down, her legacy as a leader dedicated to enhancing the justice system and serving the people of Michigan remains an influential part of her career.
