Historic Night in Birmingham as Jameria Moore Makes History
Birmingham, Alabama, turned into a hive of excitement on Tuesday evening as Jameria Moore celebrated a milestone victory at the Uptown Jazz Lounge during her election night watch party. But don’t get it twisted—this is not just about the celebration; it’s about service.
With a genuine smile, Moore told reporters, “I’m just ready to serve,” as the unofficial results rolled in, confirming her triumph as she secured 145,125 votes, amounting to 52.74 percent of the total. She defeated Republican opponent Joel Blankenship, who garnered 129,839 votes or 47.19 percent. What’s particularly groundbreaking? Moore and fellow legal eagle Yashiba Blanchard are now the first Black female judges elected to the Jefferson County Probate Court in Alabama.
Understanding the Role of Probate Court
Probate courts usually deal with the nitty-gritty of life—matters like wills, estates, mental health issues, and adoptions. It’s not just about legal proceedings; it’s about shaping families’ futures. During her enthusiastic acceptance, Moore reflected on the historical weight of her election, stating, “I know this is history…. I’m excited to have the opportunity to serve.” Later, she expressed her joy at being elected alongside Blanchard, noting, “I love the fact that this is an opportunity for us as women to serve.”
This sentiment resonates strongly as Moore speaks about being a voice for the community she serves, promising to listen closely to constituents and ensure just rulings. “Make sure that people get their cases heard timely,” she added, showing how committed she is to public service.
The Power of Family and Community
As the night progressed, surrounded by family, friends, and community leaders, it was clear that Moore valued the support that propelled her into office. “When you’re running for election, if your family is not 100 percent in, you are not going to make it,” she emphasized. With her family as her backbone, Moore stayed focused on her goals and stayed energized throughout her campaign.
Moore, who is 56 years old, is currently a partner at Sperling & Moore, PC, based in Birmingham. Her diverse experience spans various legal areas, including civil and probate law. Not one to shy away from hard work, Moore has been actively involved with several reputable legal bodies like the Alabama State Bar and Birmingham Bar Association. She has also gained a reputation as a registered mediator.
A Life Dedicated to Justice
Born and raised in Birmingham, Moore’s journey has been one of hard work and dedication. With parents who instilled strong values in her, she graduated cum laude from Alabama A&M University with a degree in civil engineering. She later transitioned into law, a career she describes as a way to help families navigate the tough times surrounding loss. “The probate court is a court that can help keep families together,” she remarked. “If we educate individuals on how to distribute their assets, I found that families stay together.”
Her deep belief in community led her to serve as a municipal judge and a special district court judge in Family Court. She’s not just focused on her role as a judge; she wishes to uplift the community she serves. Each year, over 600,000 people rely on the Jefferson County Probate Court for various services, which makes her role even more crucial.
Words of Wisdom for Future Lawyers
When asked what advice she has for aspiring lawyers, Moore’s response was both practical and motivational. “Stay focused. Stay strong,” she advised, “Never let anyone turn you around or change what your goals are.” Additionally, she suggested finding mentors, noting they can come from various walks of life—sometimes not even from legal backgrounds.
As Birmingham celebrates this significant moment, the community looks forward to Moore’s leadership in the Probate Court, where her commitment to justice and family unity will no doubt leave a lasting impact. With a heart full of gratitude and a spirit ready to work, Jameria Moore is on a mission to make a difference.
