On December 30, Michelle Bernstein, a former Westchester County assistant district attorney, was sworn in as a judge of the New Rochelle City Court. The ceremony was officiated by Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert. Bernstein was appointed to fill the vacancy of Judge Matthew Costa, who resigned in October. This interim appointment will expire on December 31, 2025.
“Her colleagues describe her as a person with an extraordinary capacity for empathy,” Ramos-Herbert said of Bernstein. “Michelle will bring to our benefit a depth of experience, a deep connection to our community and a balanced perspective that will serve all who come before her. She embodies the very best of New Rochelle and the values we hold dear: fairness, compassion and a commitment to justice for all. … We look forward to seeing the profoundly positive impact that you will undoubtedly have in this role.”
New Rochelle City Judge Jared Rice said: “This is a wonderful occasion as we welcome Judge Bernstein to the New Rochelle City Court. … Our job is our ability to serve this community, to be here at the court, as a beacon of justice.” Ramos-Herbert then administered the oath to Judge Bernstein.
In her remarks, Bernstein expressed: “I am deeply humbled and extremely grateful to stand before all of you today as I begin my journey to serve as a new city judge of New Rochelle. I did not arrive at this moment alone. I stand on the shoulders of giants: family, friends, mentors and colleagues who have guided, supported and encouraged me throughout my journey.
“I was born and bred in this great city. After [my husband and I] got married and took a one-year hiatus, we came back to plant our own roots here, and I am so grateful for the friends and neighbors I grew up with as well as new neighbors and friends..”
Bernstein thanked her family, especially her parents. “I do not have the words to express my deepest gratitude for everything you have done for me. Your unwavering support, guidance and love have been the driving force for me getting to today. Your extreme patience and encouragement shaped the person I am today. They always say it takes a village, and you are the mayor, trustees and founding members of this village.”
To her children, Bernstein said: “Coming home to you at the end of a workday is the best part of my day. I am so proud to be your mom. I hope to continue to make you proud as a mom and now a judge.” She then acknowledged her husband, Justin, as her biggest cheerleader.
Bernstein concluded: “Ever since I was an intern in the New Rochelle branch of the DA’s office back in law school, right down the hallway from the courtroom we are in today, I dreamed of becoming the judge in this very courtroom. I spent over four years in the New Rochelle branch. I always hoped to be able to come back ‘home’ as the judge. I’m absolutely thrilled, after over 16 challenging and rewarding years in the DA’s office, I will now be home to serve as a judge here in New Rochelle.”
Bernstein is a member of the Young Israel of New Rochelle and a proud parent and alum of Westchester Day School.
