Presiding Justice Dianne Renwick is a lifelong resident of the Bronx. She is a graduate of Cornell University and Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law. Justice Renwick began her legal career as a criminal defense attorney at the Legal Aid Society’s Criminal Division in Bronx County. Thereafter, Justice Renwick joined the Federal Defenders of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York.
In March 1997, Justice Renwick ascended to the bench with her appointment to the New York City Housing Court. In November 1997, she was elected to the New York City Civil Court and, in 2001, Justice Renwick was elected a Justice of the New York State Supreme Court.
In April 2008, Governor David Paterson appointed Justice Renwick to the Appellate Division, First Department, making her the first Black woman to serve on the First Department, since its creation in 1894.
Justice Renwick has demonstrated an unshakable commitment to advancing issues of the bench, bar, and community. She has taught trial advocacy programs, actively mentors students and serves on legal, educational and cultural boards and committees. Justice Renwick chairs the First Department’s Committee on Bias.