Associate Justice Marie L. Garibaldi

Overview

Justice Marie L. Garibaldi was a trailblazer in New Jersey’s judicial history, becoming the first female member of the New Jersey Supreme Court. Renowned for her expertise in tax law, she served with distinction both in private practice and in numerous professional and civic organizations before and during her tenure on the Court.

Early Life and Education

Marie L. Garibaldi was born in Jersey City on November 26, 1934. She attended Stevens Academy in Hoboken and later Connecticut College, where she graduated in 1956.

She earned her law degree from Columbia University Law School in 1959 and was admitted to the bar the following year. Demonstrating an early commitment to specialization, she pursued advanced studies and received a Master’s degree in Tax Law from New York University in 1963.

Professional Leadership and Service

At the time of her nomination to the Supreme Court, Garibaldi was serving as President of the New Jersey State Bar Association.

Her influence extended beyond the legal field — she held positions as:

• Director of the State Chamber of Commerce, New Jersey Bell Telephone Co., and Washington Savings Bank
• Trustee of St. Peter’s College

She was admitted to the bars of New Jersey, New York, and the District of Columbia, reflecting her broad professional reach. Justice Garibaldi also contributed extensively to legal education, lecturing at the New York University Tax Institute, the New Jersey Institute for Continuing Legal Education, the Seton Hall University Tax Conference, and the Estate Planning Council of Central New Jersey.

Public Service and Judicial Career

Justice Garibaldi’s public service began at the local level, where she chaired the Weehawken Charter Commission in 1968–1969 and later served as Municipal Judge of Weehawken from 1973 to 1975.

She was appointed to the New Jersey Supreme Court on November 17, 1982, becoming the first woman to serve in that capacity. Over nearly two decades on the bench, she contributed to the Court’s jurisprudence with intellect, fairness, and a strong sense of public duty.

Retirement and Legacy

Justice Garibaldi retired from the Court on January 31, 2000, leaving behind a legacy of legal excellence and leadership for future generations of women in the judiciary. She passed away on January 15, 2016, at the age of 81.

Her career remains a landmark example of dedication, intellect, and the advancement of women in law.