Judith Ellen Reed

is honored with a Brick from Dorothy C. Miller.

Judy Reed was born on February 19, 1950 in Washington, D.C. and grew up in suburban Virginia. At a very early age, protecting her younger brother against neighborhood bullies, she began defending the defenseless. After a stormy childhood, she grew up to be an attorney, but not before dropping out of law school once in order to tend to her mother, who was battling an illness. She later went back to law school, graduating from Catholic University School of Law in 1980.

Judy has spent her life helping those who need someone to help them. Eschewing a lucrative career in tax law, she has devoted her brilliant mind and legal expertise to public criminal defense work. She once described her role as sticking up for people who often have no one else in the world on their side. Many of her poor clients are ill, illiterate, and otherwise incapable of defending themselves. Judy works for her clients as hard as any attorney works for those who pay the highest retainer. She has a compassionate heart and a passion for justice.

With a strong sense of community, Judy also is also ready to lend a hand to friends and colleagues in need. At work she teaches others her craft without thought to competition. In her personal life, she's ready to help a friend move, repair a house, or learn a sport. She's a true and loyal friend and incredibly generous to those she loves.

An excellent athlete, Judy has played field hockey, softball, golf, and was on a bowling team for several years. In sports too, she has always been skilled and gracious in giving astute but tactful advice and informal "coaching" to other players. Perhaps from athletics, or perhaps just because of her nature, Judy herself is a good sport.

In the many years that we were close, Judy was a source of comfort and encouragement to me, helping me to bear losses and face challenges, helping me to believe in myself, even in the face of defeat. I am indebted to her for her belief in my work and willingness to take the time and effort to critique it thoughtfully. Judy also taught me many things about life, including the importance of family and taking care of others.

Judy loves to play and have a good time, and often faces new experiences with infectious enthusiasm. She has dozens of hobbies, which she approaches with wonder and joy. With patience and generosity, Judy helped me to have fun and enjoy life.

I am pleased to honor a true heroine, one who has overcome many obstacles and gone on to help others to do likewise. She richly deserves a place in the Plaza of Heroines.

Submitted by Dorothy C. Miller

December 9, 1998