Grand Rapids attorney Elizabeth Welch accepts MDP nomination to Michigan Supreme Court

Grand Rapids—The Michigan Democratic Party nominated Elizabeth Welch to be a candidate for the Michigan Supreme Court. Welch underscored the importance of state courts, “Our third branch of government makes decisions that impact our lives regarding civil rights, criminal justice, water issues and schools.”

Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack also received the nomination of the Michigan Democratic Party for her re-election to the Michigan Supreme Court.

Welch is running for the open seat being vacated by Justice Markman who is retiring at the end of this term. The  race will be on the non-partisan section of the ballot. 

Welch is an employment law attorney serving small businesses, non-profits and individuals, and has expertise in COVID-19 workplace issues and compliance. She has been a leader advocating for Michigan’s youth. She is a member of the School Finance Research Collaborative, a statewide coalition that studied the true cost of educating a child in Michigan; and served on the East Grand Rapids School Board for 7 years.

 Welch was also on the board of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters for 9 years, including a tenure as board president.

Additionally, her past board leadership includes Home Repair Services, a non-profit supporting lower-income homeowners, and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

Welch has worked with NAACP and local clerks to educate and improve voter access during election years.

She serves as vice president of the Steelcase Foundation and as a Trustee of the Grand Valley University Foundation.

She has received awards from the Grand Rapids Business Journal, Women Lawyers Association, Michigan Association of School Administrators, and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.

Welch lives in East Grand Rapids with her husband, Brian Schwartz. Together they have four children.