Judge Mablean Ephriam

Judge Mablean Ephriam is a television personality, former Los Angeles prosecuting attorney, and legal figure recognized for her extensive courtroom experience and public service. Ephriam began her career as a corrections officer in the Women's Division of the Federal Bureau of Prisons before earning her Juris Doctor degree from Whittier Law School through night classes. After serving as a Deputy City Attorney in Los Angeles, where she coordinated domestic violence cases involving spousal, parent, and child abuse, she entered private practice with a focus on family law, personal injury, and probate. Ephriam also co-founded the Harriet Buhai Center for Family Law in Los Angeles, a legal resource center supporting women affected by domestic violence.

Ephriam became the first woman and Black person to preside over "Divorce Court" when Twentieth Century Fox selected her as judge. She was the first to lead the reality-based version of the show, which previously featured dramatic reenactments. "Divorce Court" quickly gained popularity, ranking among the top syndicated court shows. Ephriam became known for her humor and her signature phrase, "Look deep before you leap," advising couples to carefully consider their relationships before marriage.

In addition to her television work, Ephriam appeared as a judge in Tyler Perry's Madea films, including "Diary of a Mad Black Woman," "Madea's Family Reunion," and "Madea Goes to Jail." She has also appeared in other feature films and authored the book "Judge Mablean's Life Lessons: Tools For Weekly Living."

Ephriam later returned to television with the Emmy-nominated series "Justice with Judge Mablean," where she draws on her legal expertise. Beyond television, Ephriam is a public speaker at women's conferences, churches, community organizations, colleges, and schools, addressing relationship issues and encouraging personal development. Through the Mablean Ephriam Foundation, she works to strengthen families, promote education, increase economic opportunities for disadvantaged individuals, and support community development. Ephriam's legal career has been recognized with honors such as the Distinguished Service Award from the Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles, the California State Assembly Woman of the Year Award, and the Spencer-Brandeis Award from the Los Angeles County Bar Association.