Marie L. Garibaldi (born July 2, 1943) is an American attorney and former jurist who served as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of California from 1996 to 2006. Appointed by Governor Pete Wilson, she was the second woman to sit on California’s highest court.
Early life and education
Garibaldi was born in Los Angeles, California. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California in 1965 and a Juris Doctor from Loyola Law School in 1970.
Legal career
After admission to the California Bar, Garibaldi worked in private practice before entering public service. She served as a deputy district attorney in Los Angeles County and later as a judge on the Los Angeles County Superior Court (appointed in 1985). In 1992, Governor Wilson appointed her to the California Court of Appeal, Second District, Division Four, where she served until her elevation to the Supreme Court.
Supreme Court of California
During her decade on the Supreme Court, Justice Garibaldi participated in decisions covering a broad range of issues, including criminal law, civil rights, and government regulation. She was known for her methodical approach to statutory interpretation and for authoring opinions that emphasized adherence to legislative intent. Garibaldi retired from the bench in 2006 and returned to private practice, joining a Los Angeles-based law firm as a senior counsel.
Post‑judicial activities
Following her retirement, Garibaldi has been involved in various legal and civic organizations. She has served on the board of the California Courts Commission and contributed to initiatives aimed at improving access to justice. Additionally, she has lectured on appellate practice and judicial ethics at law schools and continuing‑legal‑education programs.
Personal life
Garibaldi is married and has two children. She is an active member of the Catholic community in Southern California and participates in charitable activities related to education and health care.
Recognition
Garibalti has received multiple awards for her contributions to the legal profession, including the California Women’s Law Association’s “Woman of the Year” award (1998) and an honorary doctorate from Loyola Marymount University (2005).