Rebecca M. Olivier
Harahan
Summary
Accomplished judge at Jefferson Parish First Parish Court with expertise in courtroom management and conflict resolution. Developed innovative rehabilitation programs that enhanced community engagement and accountability. Strong background in legal research and opinion drafting, complemented by effective public speaking skills. Oversaw court operations, managing a budget and a team of 40 employees, while ensuring fair and efficient judicial processes.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Judge
First Parish Court for Jefferson Parish
Metairie
01.1995 - Current
- Presided over civil and criminal court cases, ensuring fair and impartial adjudication.
- Managed courtroom procedures, maintaining order and decorum.
- Drafted legal opinions and rulings based on case evaluations.
- Made rulings on post-judgment motions filed by either party seeking relief from original decision.
- Mediated disputes to facilitate amicable resolutions between litigants.
- Oversaw a $3.9 million operating budget which included building maintenance, employee payroll, and probation rehabilitative programs.
- Managed 40 employees, and worked in collaboration with other local and state agencies to ensure efficient operation of the court.
- Developed One Way for the Road Program, providing support and rehabilitation for alcohol and drug impaired driving offenders.
- Created Parish Court Community Service Co-Op, enabling offenders to repay the community through restorative justice initiatives.
- Implemented Something for Nothing program, addressing theft offenses while fostering accountability and community restitution.
- Settled disputes between opposing attorneys to maintain order in court.
Adjunct Professor of Trial Advocacy
Tulane Law School
New Orleans
2000 - 2002
- Delivered engaging lectures on legal principles, applying them to trial techniques and skills to enhance student understanding and practical application.
Trial Attorney
Leake & Andersson
New Orleans
01.1989 - 12.1995
- Practiced civil law focusing on insurance defense, product liability, interstate commerce, and trucking.
- Assisted abused and neglected children through CASA, advocating for their legal rights and well-being.
Education
J.D. -
Tulane Law School
New Orleans, Louisiana01-1989
B.A. - Political Science
Trinity University
San Antonio, Texas01-1986
Law Studies Program -
London School of Economics and Political Science
England01-1985
High School -
Dominican High School
New Orleans, LouisianaSkills
- Legal research
- Courtroom management
- Opinion drafting
- Case mediation
- Financial management
- Trial strategy
- Judicial reasoning
- Conflict resolution
- Judicial administration
- Public speaking
- Interpersonal skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Budget oversight
- Staff management
- Legal analysis
- Law enforcement collaboration
- Dispute resolution
Speaking And Teaching
- Instructor, part-time of trial advocacy skills Tulane Law School.
- Continuing legal education speaker on Professionalism, Slip & Fall Civil Litigation, DWI, Pro Se Litigation, Ethics
- Coaching and mentor for high school mock trial teams
- Courage to Live Team Member, National Judicial College
- Presenter, Sudden Impact Program, Presented in area high schools since 2000 sponsored and created by University Hospital Trauma Center and Louisiana State Police
- Speaker, People’s Law School, Louisiana Supreme Court
- Speaker, Bill of Rights Day, presenter at area high schools
Certification
- Admitted to Louisiana Bar Association 1989
- Admitted to U.S. Eastern, Middle and Western District Courts of Louisiana 1989
Accomplishments
- Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections Superintendent's Award for Excellence
- U.S. Department of Transportation & Safety recognized for "One Way for the Road" Program
- Louisiana Center for Law and Civic Education recognized for contribution to Teen Leadership Camp on Conflict Resolution
- State of Louisiana DWI Law Enforcement Award
- Louisiana Highway Safety Commission recognized for development of "Sudden Impact Program"
Timeline
Judge
First Parish Court for Jefferson Parish
01.1995 - Current
Trial Attorney
Leake & Andersson
01.1989 - 12.1995
Adjunct Professor of Trial Advocacy
Tulane Law School
2000 - 2002
J.D. -
Tulane Law School
B.A. - Political Science
Trinity University
Law Studies Program -
London School of Economics and Political Science
High School -
Dominican High School