Attorney. Former educator. Public servant. A lifetime devoted to the people of New Orleans.
Long before she considered a run for the bench, Candace N. Newell was in the courtroom and the classroom, practicing law, teaching students, and learning firsthand what fairness and accountability mean to the people of New Orleans. That grounding is what she'll bring to Orleans Civil District Court.
Candace N. Newell is an attorney, former educator, and public servant who also proudly represents Louisiana House District 99 in the Louisiana House of Representatives. Since assuming office on January 13, 2020, she has been a dedicated advocate for policies that strengthen families, expand educational opportunities, promote economic empowerment, and advance equity for communities across Louisiana.
Before her election to the Legislature, Representative Newell built a career grounded in service. As a former teacher and attorney, she worked directly with students, families, and community members while developing a deep understanding of the challenges facing Louisiana's citizens. Her experience spans education, law, and government, providing her with a unique perspective on public policy and community advocacy.
As a teacher, Candace taught at France Gaudet Elementary, East New Orleans Education Center, and High School District Learning Center.
Today, Candace is also Of Counsel at the Daly & Black law firm, continuing to practice law alongside her legislative service.
Representative Newell's commitment to public service began early in her career through her work in city and state government. As an intern with the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus and later as a legislative aide in the Louisiana State Senate, she helped shape policy initiatives and legislative priorities at the State Capitol. She also served as a legislative aide to Representative Wesley Bishop, gaining valuable experience in constituent services, legislative research, and public policy development.
Candace was raised in New Orleans by her parents, Bernard “Bunny” Newell and Wanda Frederick Newell, whose values of faith, hard work, and community grounded her long before she stepped into the classroom or the courtroom.
Candace's approach to public service, whether in the classroom, the courtroom, or the Capitol, has always come back to the same principle: every person deserves to be treated fairly and heard fully. As a legislator, that meant championing education, criminal justice reform, economic opportunity, healthcare access, and community development. As a judge, it will mean applying the law evenhandedly to every case and every New Orleanian who enters her courtroom.
Candace is running for Judge of Orleans Civil District Court, Division L, because New Orleans deserves a judge with real legal experience, deep community ties, and an unwavering commitment to fairness.