Three ASU Law alumni appointed to the Arizona Judiciary in competitive year

Three alumni of the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University have been appointed to serve in Arizona’s judiciary by Governor Katie Hobbs. These appointments mark notable achievements in a year marked by a highly competitive application process.

Nicole Hartley (JD ‘09) and Janette Corral (JD ‘13) were named to the Maricopa County Superior Court and Andrew Becke (JD ‘07) was appointed to the Arizona Court of Appeals, Division One.

“When Governor Hobbs called to let me know she had selected me, I was quite honestly in a daze for about an hour, hardly believing it was real,” Becke said. “Once it sunk in, I was ecstatic. This position is truly a ‘dream job’ for me and is the culmination of many years of hard work.”

For Corral, she said she shared the same sense of disbelief and humility.

“Serving as a judge is something I could have never imagined, and I am incredibly humbled by this opportunity,” she said. “I would not be where I am if it weren’t for the support of colleagues, friends and family.”

Hartley described the moment as both exciting and humbling.

“I was so honored to be chosen among such an incredible group of highly qualified candidates (and to share the moment with a dear friend, Judge Corral). For me, this appointment serves as a greater opportunity for me to continue my career of public service, the part of the law that has always motivated and inspired me.”

The power of strong legal writing

In reflecting on the foundations of their legal careers, all three judges credited ASU Law’s top-ranked legal writing program as a key factor in their professional development.

All three pointed to the mentorship and instruction they received early in their legal education, particularly from longtime faculty member Amy Langenfeld, W.P. Kay fellow in legal method and clinical professor of law.

“Professor Langenfeld gave me the tools to be successful in this profession,” Becke said.

Corral, who also credits Susan Chesler, clinical professor of law, still shares the professor’s materials with her judicial interns.

“They are gifted teachers, and I felt lucky to learn from them — I soaked up everything they taught me like a sponge,” she said. “Those professors helped lay the foundation for critical thinking, researching and writing.”

Hartley said her connection to Langenfeld went beyond the classroom.

“I had the good fortune of having Amy Langenfeld as my writing professor during my 1L year and the even greater fortune of being chosen to be her teaching assistant during my 2L year,” she said. “She helped me become the legal writer I am.”

With a top-ranked legal writing program, ASU Law continues to prepare its graduates with the core skills necessary for careers in law and for the bench.

Paving the way for future judges

All of these alums have given back by mentoring students and young professionals over the years. Now, they offer guidance for current ASU Law students and recent graduates who aspire to join the judiciary.

Becke emphasized the importance of resilience and long-term vision.

“Persistence is a virtue,” he said. “If being a judge is something to which you aspire, understand that very few people are successful in their first (or second) attempt. If the bench is what you really want, keep at it.”

Corral spoke to the importance of authenticity, support systems and personal growth.

“Find what you love and what makes you feel bright and shiny,” she said. “Strive to be excellent and don’t let bumps in the road turn into roadblocks. Never be afraid to ask for help. Find your community, serve them in the highest way you can, and lean on them when you need.”

Hartley encouraged future legal professionals to value integrity, experience and every connection along the way.

“Courtroom and trial experience are important before applying to be a judicial officer,” she said. “Stay involved in your legal community through bar associations, alumni groups and other professional organizations. Each interaction you have as a lawyer — with a judge, adversary, colleague, staff or client — can help shape your future opportunities, so always act professionally and courteously.”

As Hartley, Corral and Becke step into their new roles, their success is a reminder to current and future students that with the right foundation and support, they too can make a difference in Arizona.

Written by Crystal Jimenez