In the heart of Brooklyn, Judge Sharen D. Hudson stands as a beacon of justice and community advocacy. Currently serving as the Acting Supreme Court Judge in the Red Hook Community Justice Center, Judge Hudson tackles a diverse array of issues—from resolving housing disputes to addressing broader community concerns—with a dedication to preserving family unity and ensuring access to vital services. Central to her approach is the practice of alternatives to incarceration, aimed at breaking cycles of recidivism and fostering healing within the community.
“In order to have a healthy and safe community it is important for us to concentrate on the well-being of the people who live within the community. This is true for Red Hook, Gowanus, Sunset Park, Park Slope, East New York, and every community throughout Brooklyn,” stated Judge Hudson.
Born and raised in the Red Hook Housing Development and now residing in East New York, Judge Hudson’s journey is a testament to her remarkable ascent and unwavering dedication. Her educational path led her from John Jay College of Criminal Justice to Brooklyn Law School, where she attended night classes while working as a Court Officer. This early experience within the New York State Court System, spanning over four decades, laid a solid foundation for her illustrious legal career.
Upon earning her Juris Doctor degree, Judge Hudson served as a Law Clerk in both Civil and Supreme Courts, gaining invaluable insights into the judicial process. Her commitment to public service blossomed as she assumed the role of a Pro-Se Attorney at the Red Hook Community Justice Center, providing legal information to individuals facing challenges in Housing, Family, and Civil law.
A Career Focused on Community and Rehabilitation
Elected as a Civil Court Judge of Kings County in 2011, Judge Hudson was entrusted with various roles, presiding over arraignments, youth and substance abuse/drug treatment parts. Here, she closely engaged with first-time offenders, often employing alternative sentencing and rehabilitation programs that culminated in successful outcomes. By providing youth with an opportunity at a second chance, Judge Hudson not only benefited the individuals involved but also fostered a safer and more resilient community. Her fulfillment in these roles was evident during the graduation ceremonies she conducted to celebrate the successful reintegration of individuals into society.
In 2017, Judge Hudson ascended to the position of Acting Supreme Court Justice, assuming responsibility for a wide range of judicial matters, as well as presiding over bench trials, jury selection, and jury trials. Today, she leads the problem-solving court at the Red Hook Community Justice Center, a forum dedicated not only to adjudicating legal issues but also to fostering community healing and conflict resolution.
Hudson’s hands-on approach and common-sense justice is what is needed in today’s society where far too often we see individuals being arrested only to be released without addressing the underlying issues.
Judge Hudson stated, “members of our society are dealing with mental wellness issues, so when I look at cases I look at the case in its entirety. If a person is dealing with mental illness issues, then the goal should be to get that person the help they need to enable them to function within society, as opposed to immediate incarceration. Incarcerating people who obviously need mental help only leads to that person being incarcerated in the future.”
Judge Hudson added, “Some people simply need help. I am committed to keeping families together, while helping to establish the support they need. We can certainly address those needs while also ensuring the health, safety and welfare of our citizens in our communities.”
Advocacy, Awards, and Community Engagement
Beyond her judicial duties, Judge Hudson participates in multiple Bar Associations and has received numerous accolades, including a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition. Her commitment extends to community service, particularly in her interactions with youth. She has adopted the Brownsville Collaborative Middle School for Agriculture and Technology, as well as engaging regularly with students across various educational institutions.
Judge Hudson is involved in community initiatives such as Geraldine Scott’s Holiday program for Domestic Violence Survivors and programs supporting local seniors. Her voluntary contributions are grounded in a profound faith and the unwavering support of her family, which she credits as the bedrock of her strength and commitment.
A Lifelong Dedication to Justice and Fairness
In Judge Hudson’s courtroom at the Red Hook Community Justice Center, every individual is treated with utmost respect, fairness, and impartiality. Her life’s work embodies her belief in a justice system that ensures public safety, but also rehabilitates and educates.
Judge Hudson’s approach to providing fairness in the court system while maintaining community safety is so exemplary that it has garnered attention from other judicial systems. Her work, through initiatives of the Center for Justice Innovation and the Red Hook Community Justice Center, is now being studied as a model of judicial excellence.
Officials from countries such as El Salvador. New Zealand, and Australia have visited the Red Hook Community Justice Center to observe and learn from their practices, aiming to bring these ideas back to their respective countries. Additionally, officials from Chicago and South Dallas, Texas have also visited the center to explore the Red Hook Community Justice Center model for potential implementation in their court systems.
As Brooklyn continues to evolve, Judge Sharen D. Hudson remains a steadfast guardian of its legal and ethical values, embodying the principles of justice, empathy, and community support that have made her a beloved and esteemed figure in Kings County. Her legacy is one of compassionate leadership, a commitment to fairness, and tireless advocacy for the well-being of all Brooklyn residents.
