Judge Amanda Sterkenburg began presiding over matters before the 62-B District Court on Jan. 1, 2021, for a six-year term. In her prior practice as a solo attorney, she represented criminal and civil defendants, landlords, tenants and litigants with many different types of claims. Her experience includes successful jury trials on assault, theft and retail fraud offenses.
She has more than 90 hours of mediation training and has handled matters in many local circuit and district courts, including the 62-B District Court. Her recent accolades include being recognized as a finalist for the 2021 Grand Rapids Business Journal’s Newsmaker of the Year award.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve our community in this capacity,” Sterkenburg said. “As 62-B District Court judge, I will remain committed to ensuring well-reasoned sentences, proportionate punishment and fair rulings that reflect the unique circumstances of every matter that comes before me.”
Sterkenburg is a member of the State Bar of Michigan, the Grand Rapids Bar Association, and the Michigan District Judges Association and is active in many local organizations. She and her family attend Kentwood Community Church.
Sterkenburg graduated cum laude from Franklin College and Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Drawn to the diversity and opportunity in Kentwood, Sterkenburg moved to the city with her two children 10 years ago.