Snyder's legal counsel named to state's top court

Elizabeth Clement, a legal expert with experience in both the executive and legislative branches of government, has been appointed to the Michigan Supreme Court by Gov. Rick Snyder.

Clement fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Justice Joan Larsen, who was nominated by President Donald Trump to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and confirmed by the Senate earlier this month.

“Beth is an exceptional attorney and leader who brings experience from various branches of government and areas of private practice to the state’s highest court,” Snyder said. “She is highly regarded by judges and her peers, and brings incredible skill to this role.

“I know Beth to be fair, a great thinker and someone who will faithfully adhere to the proper role of the judiciary. Her talent will be a great asset as the Supreme Court continues its work to improve efficiencies in courts statewide.”

Clement, of East Lansing, currently serves as chief legal counsel to the governor where she provides legal counsel to the governor and executive office on a broad array of subjects.

Prior to that she was deputy chief of staff in the executive office and deputy legal counsel.

Clement previously worked in the Senate Majority Policy Office, as an attorney at Clement Law PLLC, and as legal counsel in the Senate.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Michigan State University and her law degree from the MSU College of Law.

“Beth Clement is one of the brightest legal minds of her generation,” said Lt. Gov. Brian Calley. “She has been an invaluable leader in our administration and will be an excellent addition to the Michigan Supreme Court.”

“My colleagues and I look forward to welcoming Beth Clement to the Michigan Supreme Court,” said Chief Justice Stephen J. Markman, “restoring our full complement of seven Justices in time for our December oral arguments.”

Markman said Clement “brings remarkable legal experience, respect for the rule of law, and a reputation for judiciousness to the court.”

“I have no doubt that she will only build upon this reputation, and contribute significantly to the work of the court from her very first day in her new position,” he said.

State Attorney General Bill Schuette said Clement “was a smart and hardworking attorney who will do a terrific job on the court”
Supreme Court justices serve eight-year terms.

Clement may seek election in 2018 for a full eight-year term.

Under the state constitution, the Supreme Court appointment belongs to the governor alone.

Travis W. Weber will replace Clement as the governor’s new chief legal counsel and Frederick Headen will join the office as senior legal counsel.

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