Today was The Honorable Maureen Bell's last day on the bench as a judge of the Ninth Circuit. Since taking the bench in 2007, she has faithfully served Orange County's criminal and specialized divisions with compassion and grace.

Before becoming part of the judiciary, Judge Bell worked as a mediator, a drug-addiction counselor, and then a general magistrate on behalf of the Ninth Circuit from 1996 to 2006.

Thank you, Judge Bell, for bringing your legal expertise, objectivity, and passion for the community to the Ninth Circuit. We wish you all the best in your retirement!