Born in Guyana and immigrating to the United States at the age of 15, Michelle was raised in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, where her early experiences shaped her understanding of the challenges many families face navigating complex systems.

Meet Michelle

Michelle’s academic journey reflects both discipline and excellence. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with a minor in Japanese Studies, from the University at Albany, SUNY.

She later obtained her Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School, where she distinguished herself academically by earning Certificates of Merit in Business Organizations/Corporations and International Law.

She has also been actively involved with God’s Battalion of Prayer Church, supporting its shelter ministry and soup kitchen efforts to assist vulnerable populations.

As Board President of Battalion Christian Academy and a continuing board member, she has played a key role in supporting educational opportunities for young people.

Michelle Desouza-Forte earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Albany at SUNY, and a law degree from Western Michigan University.

She previously operated her own law practice, providing guidance to individuals and families on matters such as wills, trusts and estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes.

She later worked as an Associate Attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group, where she handled estate planning and administration in a fast-paced legal environment.

Most recently, as an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department, she represented the City in litigation, managing trials, motion practice, discovery, and settlement negotiations, while also mentoring junior attorneys and supervising interns.

Michelle previously worked as an attorney. 

2026 New York General Election

As an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department, represented the City in lawsuits, including trials, court motions, evidence exchange, and settlement negotiations.

- She previously operated her own law practice, providing guidance to individuals and families on matters such as wills, trusts and estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes.
- She later worked as an Associate Attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group, where she handled estate planning and administration in a fast-paced legal environment.
- As an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department, represented the City in lawsuits, including trials, court motions, evidence exchange, and settlement negotiations.

Legal Experience

“As a judge of Caribbean descent, I would bring diversity to a legal system where people of color are disproportionately represented on the bench,” DeSouza-Forte continued. “As a wife and mother, I would apply the law through the prism of compassionate integrity, treating all litigants fairly in every decision I make.”

Guyanese-born Attorney Michelle DeSouza-Forte seeks seat on Kings County Civil Court bench

Michelle DeSouza-Forte’s principles are rooted in fairness, integrity, service, and community. Shaped by her upbringing in an immigrant household in East Flatbush and her experience as an attorney, she believes the legal system should be accessible, respectful, and just for everyone.

As of October 12, 2026, Michelle Desouza-Forte’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Judicial Philosophy

“I believe people deserve fairness, professionalism, and dignity when they enter a courtroom,” DeSouza said. “The justice system affects people in very real ways, and it is important that individuals feel heard and respected throughout the process.”

Judicial Candidate Michelle DeSouza Engages Brooklyn Communities Ahead of Primary

Believes people deserve fairness, professionalism, and dignity when they enter a courtroom.

- Believes people deserve fairness, professionalism, and dignity when they enter a courtroom.

Judicial Administration

Ethics & Conduct

“They did not know what it was, when it was required, or the duration of its power until it was too late,” she added. “After assisting a close family friend, whose family lacked access to her accounts while she was hospitalized, I began conducting estate planning seminars in churches, libraries, and homes. I saw a need and aimed to fill it.”

Conducted estate-planning seminars in churches, libraries, and homes to provide community members with estate-planning information.

- Conducted estate-planning seminars in churches, libraries, and homes to provide community members with estate-planning information.

Community Involvement

LinkedIn

Michelle Desouza-Forte

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- As an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department, represented the City in lawsuits, including trials, court motions, evidence exchange, and settlement negotiations.

Michelle previously served on Community Education Council 18, where she contributed to shaping policies and advocating for students and families within the district.

Michelle R. DeSouza-Forte is a dedicated attorney, public servant, and community advocate whose life story reflects perseverance, resilience, and a deep commitment to fairness. Born in Guyana and immigrating to the United States at the age of 15, Michelle was raised in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, where her early experiences shaped her understanding of the challenges many families face navigating complex systems. Growing up in a household of nine children, she learned the importance of responsibility, sacrifice, and hard work—values that continue to guide her both personally and professionally.

Michelle Desouza-Forte was born in Guyana, immigrated to the United States at age 15, and was raised in East Flatbush, Brooklyn.

Professionally, Michelle brings a well-rounded legal background that spans both private practice and public service. She previously operated her own law practice, providing guidance to individuals and families on matters such as wills, trusts and estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes. She later worked as an Associate Attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group, where she handled estate planning and administration in a fast-paced legal environment. Most recently, as an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department, she represented the City in litigation, managing trials, motion practice, discovery, and settlement negotiations, while also mentoring junior attorneys and supervising interns.

Michelle Desouza-Forte most recently worked as an assistant corporation counsel with the New York City Law Department. She previously operated her own law practice and worked as an associate attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group.

Operated a private law practice advising individuals and families on wills, estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes.

Worked as an associate attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group, handling estate planning and estate administration.

As an assistant corporation counsel with the New York City Law Department, represented the city in litigation, including trials, pretrial motions, evidence exchange, and settlement negotiations.

- Operated a private law practice advising individuals and families on wills, estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes.
- Worked as an associate attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group, handling estate planning and estate administration.
- As an assistant corporation counsel with the New York City Law Department, represented the city in litigation, including trials, pretrial motions, evidence exchange, and settlement negotiations.

Michelle DeSouza-Forte’s principles are rooted in fairness, integrity, service, and community. Shaped by her upbringing in an immigrant household in East Flatbush and her experience as an attorney, she believes the legal system should be accessible, respectful, and just for everyone. She is guided by a strong sense of accountability and compassion, with a commitment to making thoughtful decisions, serving with honesty, and ensuring that people and communities are treated with dignity.

“As a judge of Caribbean descent, I would bring diversity to a legal system where people of color are disproportionately represented on the bench. As a wife and mother, I would apply the law through the prism of compassionate integrity, treating all litigants fairly in every decision I make.”

Guyana-born attorney seeks seat on Brooklyn Civil Court bench

Michelle DeSouza is committed to fairness, integrity, and equal justice for all. Throughout her career in public service and the court system, she has demonstrated a deep respect for the legal process and for the people it serves. Her candidacy is grounded in the belief that every person deserves to be treated with dignity, impartiality, and respect.

Michelle DeSouza for Judge

Believes the legal system should be accessible and just and that all litigants should be treated fairly, impartially, and with dignity and respect.

- Believes the legal system should be accessible and just and that all litigants should be treated fairly, impartially, and with dignity and respect.

Conducted estate-planning seminars in churches, libraries, and homes.

Michelle R. DeSouza-Forte is a dedicated attorney, public servant, and community advocate whose life story reflects perseverance, resilience, and a deep commitment to fairness. Born in Guyana and immigrating to the United States at the age of 15, Michelle was raised in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, where her early experiences shaped her understanding of the challenges many families face navigating complex systems.

Michelle’s academic journey reflects both discipline and excellence. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with a minor in Japanese Studies, from the University at Albany, SUNY. She later obtained her Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School, where she distinguished herself academically by earning Certificates of Merit in Business Organizations/Corporations and International Law.

She has also been actively involved with God’s Battalion of Prayer Church, supporting its shelter ministry and soup kitchen efforts to assist vulnerable populations.

Michelle Desouza-Forte was born in Guyana and immigrated to the United States at age 15, before being raised in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science, with a minor in Japanese studies, from the University at Albany, SUNY, and a law degree from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She has supported the shelter ministry and soup kitchen efforts at God’s Battalion of Prayer Church.

Professionally, Michelle brings a well-rounded legal background that spans both private practice and public service. She previously operated her own law practice, providing guidance to individuals and families on matters such as wills, trusts and estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes.

Most recently, as an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department, she represented the City in litigation, managing trials, motion practice, discovery, and settlement negotiations, while also mentoring junior attorneys and supervising interns. Her experience reflects a strong commitment to justice, professionalism, and service at every level of the legal system.

Michelle most recently worked as an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department. She previously worked as an associate attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group and operated her own law practice.

Operated a law practice advising individuals and families on estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes.

As an assistant corporation counsel with the New York City Law Department, represented the city in litigation, including trials, motions, evidence exchange, and settlement negotiations.

- Operated a law practice advising individuals and families on estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes.
- Worked as an associate attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group, handling estate planning and estate administration.
- As an assistant corporation counsel with the New York City Law Department, represented the city in litigation, including trials, motions, evidence exchange, and settlement negotiations.

“I want to become a judge not only because of my legal experience, but also because I am guided by a deep sense of fairness and representation and a desire to serve my community,” DeSouza-Forte told Caribbean Life exclusively over the weekend. “This is evident in my work as a solo practitioner, where I provided not only legal services but also conducted seminars to educate my community on the importance of estate planning.

“Additionally, as a defense attorney, I have not encountered many judges or attorneys who look like me in the courtroom,” she added. “I am often one of the few women or the only minority attorney in the courtroom.

“As a judge of Caribbean descent, I would bring diversity to a legal system where people of color are disproportionately represented on the bench,” DeSouza-Forte continued. “As a wife and mother, I would apply the law through the prism of compassionate integrity, treating all litigants fairly in every decision I make.”

About Michelle
Guided by Fairness and Integrity

Michelle DeSouza is committed to fairness, integrity, and equal justice for all. Throughout her career in public service and the court system, she has demonstrated a deep respect for the legal process and for the people it serves. Her candidacy is grounded in the belief that every person deserves to be treated with dignity, impartiality, and respect.

Pledges to apply the law with “compassionate integrity” and treat all litigants fairly.

Believes the legal system should be accessible, respectful, just, and impartial for everyone.

- Pledges to apply the law with “compassionate integrity” and treat all litigants fairly.
- Believes the legal system should be accessible, respectful, just, and impartial for everyone.

Michelle believes that everyone deserves access to justice, and she is committed to ensuring that the court system is fair and equitable for all. Her campaign focuses on transparency, accountability, and community engagement.

Is committed to ensuring that the court system is fair and equitable for all.

- Is committed to ensuring that the court system is fair and equitable for all.

As Board President of Battalion Christian Academy and a continuing board member, she has played a key role in supporting educational opportunities for young people.

Supports God’s Battalion of Prayer Church’s shelter ministry and soup kitchen efforts for vulnerable populations.

Serves on the board of Battalion Christian Academy, supporting educational opportunities for young people.

- Supports God’s Battalion of Prayer Church’s shelter ministry and soup kitchen efforts for vulnerable populations.
- Serves on the board of Battalion Christian Academy, supporting educational opportunities for young people.

Education & Legal Experience

Michelle’s academic journey reflects both discipline and excellence. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with a minor in Japanese Studies, from the University at Albany, SUNY. She later obtained her Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School, where she distinguished herself academically by earning Certificates of Merit in Business Organizations/Corporations and International Law.

Michelle previously served on Community Education Council 18, where she contributed to shaping policies and advocating for students and families within the district. She has also been actively involved with God’s Battalion of Prayer Church, supporting its shelter ministry and soup kitchen efforts to assist vulnerable populations. As Board President of Battalion Christian Academy and a continuing board member, she has played a key role in supporting educational opportunities for young people.

She later worked as an Associate Attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group, where she handled estate planning and administration in a fast-paced legal environment. Most recently, as an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department, she represented the City in litigation, managing trials, motion practice, discovery, and settlement negotiations, while also mentoring junior attorneys and supervising interns. Her experience reflects a strong commitment to justice, professionalism, and service at every level of the legal system.

She previously operated her own law practice, providing guidance to individuals and families on matters such as wills, trusts and estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes. She later worked as an Associate Attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group, where she handled estate planning and administration in a fast-paced legal environment. Most recently, as an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department, she represented the City in litigation, managing trials, motion practice, discovery, and settlement negotiations, while also mentoring junior attorneys and supervising interns.

Professionally, Michelle brings a well-rounded legal background that spans both private practice and public service. She previously operated her own law practice, providing guidance to individuals and families on matters such as wills, trusts and estates, real estate, immigration, contracts, and civil disputes. She later worked as an Associate Attorney at Grimaldi & Yeung Law Group, where she handled estate planning and administration in a fast-paced legal environment.

Judicial Philosophy
The Principles That Define Michelle’s Leadership

Michelle DeSouza-Forte’s principles are rooted in fairness, integrity, service, and community. Shaped by her upbringing in an immigrant household in East Flatbush and her experience as an attorney, she believes the legal system should be accessible, respectful, and just for everyone. She is guided by a strong sense of accountability and compassion, with a commitment to making thoughtful decisions, serving with honesty, and ensuring that people and communities are treated with dignity.

Her service extends beyond the legal field into education and faith-based initiatives. Michelle previously served on Community Education Council 18, where she contributed to shaping policies and advocating for students and families within the district. She has also been actively involved with God’s Battalion of Prayer Church, supporting its shelter ministry and soup kitchen efforts to assist vulnerable populations.

Conducted estate-planning seminars in churches, libraries, and homes after identifying a need for such seminars.

Isaac Brickman

Buket Urgen

Janice P. Purvis

- The New York Civil Court has jurisdiction over civil cases involving amounts up to $50,000 and other civil matters referred to it by the Supreme Court.
- It includes a small claims part for informal dispositions of matters not exceeding $10,000 and a housing part for landlord-tenant matters and housing code violations.
- There are 120 judges elected to the Civil Court, but only about 50 sit in it. The remaining judges sit in other courts, such as the Criminal Court or Family Court.
- Judges are elected to 10-year terms in partisan elections.
- They are paid a salary of $216,400.

Judge who handles majority of civil cases in New York