FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 8, 2022
Contact: Claire Lancaster
claire.lancaster@state.mn.us
651-219-2975
Governor Walz Appoints Natalie Martinez to Fill Third Judicial District Vacancy
[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Natalie Martinez as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. Martinez will be replacing the Honorable Kevin A. Lund and will be chambered in Austin in Mower County.
“Ms. Martinez’s deep understanding of the needs of her community and strong legal acumen will serve Mower County well for years to come,” said Governor Walz. “Her unique background and perspective, combined with her wide breadth of legal experience, will make her a tremendous asset to the bench.”
“As an experienced attorney and judicial officer and a dedicated community member, Ms. Martinez understands the challenges that many face when engaging with our justice system. Her commitment to ensuring justice for those who have been historically unheard and underrepresented will serve her well,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “I am excited to see her excel in her new position.”
Minnesota’s Third Judicial District encompasses Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca, and Winona counties.
About Natalie Martinez:
Natalie Martinez is an associate attorney at Donnelly Law Office, a part-time public defender in Freeborn County, and a Mower County conciliation court referee. She works primarily in the areas of family law, criminal defense, and child protection. Martinez previously was an attorney with Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services, providing representation to victims of domestic abuse in family law matters. Her community involvement includes volunteering with her local community theater, holding various leadership positions within the Freeborn County and Tenth District Bar Associations, and serving on the boards of the First Lutheran Church and the Crime Victim’s Crisis Center. She earned her B.A. from St. Olaf College and J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.
For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.
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