2025 Judge of the Year: Judge Jennifer Guillot Womble

Each year, Louisiana CASA recognizes outstanding individuals and programs across the state through our CASA Awards of Excellence. These honors celebrate the dedication, compassion, and exceptional efforts of those who work tirelessly to support children who have experienced abuse and neglect. Judge of the Year, Judge Jennifer Guillot Womble

This year, we are proud to present the Judge of the Year Award to Judge Jennifer Guillot Womble of Jefferson Parish Juvenile Court, Section A.

Judge Womble’s career is defined by compassion, legal excellence, and an unwavering commitment to child welfare. She was elected without opposition in 2023, bringing with her over two decades of experience in private practice and as a public defender, representing children and indigent parents in thousands of cases across Southeast Louisiana.

As CASA Jefferson Executive Director Wendy Magee noted in her nomination: “Judge Womble’s unwavering dedication to the children and families of Jefferson Parish, coupled with her deep commitment to CASA Jefferson, makes her a truly deserving recipient of this recognition.”

Before taking the bench, Judge Womble also handled hundreds of adoptions, underscoring her commitment to helping children find stability and permanency. As a parent’s attorney, she was known for her fairness and diligence, always working to ensure the best possible outcomes for children. Now, as a judge, her support for CASA Jefferson is as strong as ever.

Wendy shared that Judge Womble frequently engages with CASA Jefferson volunteers: “She visits our office and speaks to new CASA volunteers, sharing her knowledge and experience to help them better understand the child welfare system.”

She also attends CASA Jefferson’s Winter Fest annually, a celebration that brings joy and connection to the children served. Inside the courtroom, Judge Womble goes above and beyond to create a child-friendly environment by offering stuffed animals to children to help ease their anxiety.

“Her compassion and thoughtful approach create a more child-friendly court experience, reinforcing her commitment to protecting and supporting the most vulnerable members of our community,” Wendy wrote.

Her extensive qualifications speak for themselves. Judge Womble is a National Child Welfare Specialist with the National Association of Counsel for Children, a Fellow of the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys, and an active member of the Louisiana State Bar Association’s Children’s Law Committee. Her long-standing involvement with CASA dates back to her college years, and her community leadership includes serving as President of Jefferson Parish Extra Mile.

Judge Ann Murry Keller, who nominated her as well, reflected on her long history with Judge Womble, beginning with her time as a law clerk: “From the very beginning, it was clear that she possessed the heart of a true advocate—one who would dedicate her career to ensuring justice and support for the most vulnerable members of our community.”

Judge Keller praised Womble’s courtroom fairness and empathy, as well as her ability to connect with families: “Her legal expertise, coupled with her ability to connect with families during some of the most challenging times in their lives, set her apart as one of the most effective and respected attorneys in the juvenile court system.”

Since taking the bench, that same passion has only grown.

“Jennifer is not only a brilliant legal mind but also a leader, mentor, and community advocate,” Judge Keller wrote. “Her unparalleled dedication, compassion, and commitment to justice make her truly deserving of the Judge of the Year award.”

We are proud to honor Judge Jennifer Guillot Womble with this year’s Judge of the Year Award, in recognition of her exceptional leadership, lifelong advocacy, and unwavering belief in justice for children and families.