Stanislaus County Superior Court Judge Carrie Stephens, a lifelong resident of Newman, has been named one of Stanislaus County's Outstanding Women of 2025. This prestigious recognition celebrates her exceptional career in public service, her commitment to justice, and her unwavering dedication to the community.

"It was an honor," Judge Stephens reflected on the accolade. "It was absolutely an honor to be considered among those fine women that also received awards. And then many fine women before, who also were awarded throughout the years."

The honor was bestowed upon Stephens by the Stanislaus County Commission for Women, which was established to advocate for and promote the interests of women in Stanislaus County. Through educational programs, advocacy, and outreach, the Commission works to create a supportive environment for women to thrive in all aspects of life, from the workplace to the home.

Growing up in Newman, a town of just 2,800 residents during her youth, Stephens attributes her tight-knit community upbringing to shaping her confidence and approach to leadership. As a graduate of Orestimba High School with only 48 students in her class, she cherishes the lifelong friendships formed in such an intimate setting.

"When you have such a close-knit group with friends that you've known for the most part your whole life, you develop really deep friendships," Stephens shared. "With that comes a level of confidence that you can get along with anybody if you work at it."

Judge Stephens’ legal journey began in an unexpected way. Disenchanted with private practice after graduating from law school, she joined the U.S. Navy and served in the Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG). "It was single-handedly the best professional decision I ever made," she said of the experience. Through her time in the JAG Corps, Stephens discovered her passion for criminal law and honed her skills through direct client work.

"It was there that I learned that I really liked criminal law, that it was something that I felt I had a penchant for, and would suit my skill set," she explained.

After serving five and a half years on active duty, Stephens returned to civilian life, where she made significant contributions as a public defender and later as deputy county counsel, representing social workers in cases involving abused and neglected children. Over the course of her career, she also served in the Navy Reserves, only recently retiring after decades of dedicated service.

"Military members are trained to be leaders," she emphasized, reflecting on how her military service shaped her approach to leadership and law. "That experience and that training, I think, really was foundational for the way I practice law in the civilian sector too."

Judge Stephens remains deeply connected to her hometown, living just doors away from her childhood home. Having recently concluded her term as presiding judge, she now focuses on her judicial duties and spending time with her family.

When asked what advice she would offer young women from small towns like Newman, she spoke about the unique strengths their backgrounds provide. "You're probably more worldly than many people that come from a big city because of your life experiences. Most people do not have the chance to live in the country and to understand how the world works, how ag works, how farming works," Stephens said. Her guidance to aspiring leaders is simple yet powerful: "Work hard. Do not let anybody tell you no. Show them that you can do the task that is at hand. Feel that you can do it and know you can do it well."

Judge Stephens’ inspiring journey from a small-town upbringing to a respected judicial career stands as a testament to her determination, resilience, and commitment to serving others. As one of Stanislaus County's Outstanding Women, she continues to lead by example, proving that even the smallest towns can produce the strongest leaders.