Making history.

From left: Judges Wadel, Sniegowski, Cooper and Nellis.

Susan Sniegowski takes the oath of office.

See video here. 

By Rob Alway. Editor-in-Chief. 

LUDINGTON — History was made this afternoon when Susan Sniegowski was sworn in as the 51st Circuit Court judge, making her the first female judge to serve in Mason and Lake counties. Sniegowski was also Mason County’s first female prosecutor. The swearing in ceremony was the last official act of Judge Richard I. Cooper, who has served as 51st Circuit Court judge since 1979. Judge Pete Wadel, 79th District Court and Judge Jeff Nellis, Mason County Probate Court, served as witnesses. Also present in the courtroom were Lake County Trial Court Judge Mark Wickens and Mark Raven, retired Mason County Probate judge, along with several area attorneys, court staff, family members and supporters.

Sniegowski will officially take the bench on Jan. 1, 2015.