Robin Ransom facts for kids

Robin Ransom (born July 21, 1967) is an American lawyer. She serves as a judge on the Supreme Court of Missouri. Governor Mike Parson appointed her to this important court in 2021. She made history as the first African-American woman to hold this position. Before joining the Supreme Court, Ransom was a judge on the Missouri Court of Appeals from 2019 to 2021. She also served on the St. Louis Circuit Court from 2008 to 2019.

Early Life and Education

Robin Ransom was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on July 21, 1967. Her father worked as a firefighter and also helped people as a social worker.

She went to Rosati-Kain High School. In 1988, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University–New Brunswick. She studied political science and sociology there. Later, in 1991, she earned her law degree from the University of Missouri School of Law.

Robin Ransom's Career as a Judge

Robin Ransom started her legal career in 1992. She worked as a public defender in St. Louis County. A public defender is a lawyer who helps people who cannot afford to hire their own lawyer.

In 1995, she became a prosecutor in St. Louis County. A prosecutor is a lawyer who works for the government. They try to prove that someone has broken the law.

Becoming a Judge

In 2002, she became a juvenile family court commissioner in St. Louis. This role involves working with cases about children and families. That same year, Governor Bob Holden appointed her as an associate justice.

On September 11, 2008, Governor Matt Blunt appointed her to the St. Louis Circuit Court. This is a court where many different types of cases are heard. In 2018, the other judges on the court chose her to be the presiding judge. This was a big honor, and she was the first African-American woman to hold this leadership role on that court.

Joining Higher Courts

In 2019, Governor Mike Parson appointed her to the Missouri Court of Appeals. This court reviews decisions made by lower courts.

Then, on May 24, 2021, Governor Parson appointed her to the Supreme Court of Missouri. This is the highest court in the state. Robin Ransom became the first African-American woman to serve on this important court.

She was one of many people who wanted the job. A special group helped choose three candidates for the governor to pick from. Governor Parson chose Robin Ransom very quickly.

People across Missouri were happy about her appointment. State Representative Ashley Bland Manlove said it was a good step forward. Former Missouri Chief Justice Michael A. Wolff also praised her selection.

Personal Life and Hobbies

Outside of her work, Robin Ransom enjoys bowling. She has been bowling since she was 11 years old. In March 2021, she bowled a perfect 300, which is very difficult to do!

She also helps children learn to read. She tutors kids for a local church's reading program. She is part of groups that work to improve the justice system and help children in foster care. She also mentors young people through a group called The Literacy Project.

See also

• List of African-American jurists
• List of African-American U.S. state firsts
• List of judges of the Supreme Court of Missouri