Fort Bend County, TX —
Juli Mathew, the first Indian-American and Malayali woman elected as a judge in the United States, is preparing to seek a third term to the Fort Bend County Court at Law No. 3. Born in Vennikulam, Kerala, and raised in the U.S. from age ten, Mathew first made history in 2018 when she won the judgeship, followed by a strong re-election victory in 2022.

A graduate of Penn State University and the University of Delaware School of Law, Mathew has practiced law for over a decade and currently oversees civil, criminal, juvenile, probate, mental health, and appellate matters in one of the fastest-growing counties in America.

Known for her community-centered judicial initiatives, Judge Mathew launched juvenile intervention and mental-health programs emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment. She also introduced engagement platforms such as “Chai & Chat” and “Kitchen to the Courthouse” to build transparency and empower young women.

Mathew’s current term ends December 31, 2026, and preparations for her next campaign are underway. Her continued rise is widely celebrated among Malayali and Indian-American communities as a testament to perseverance, service, and representation in public office.

Judge Juli Mathew Prepares for Third Term Bid; A Proud Moment for Malayali Community