Kristen Smith-Rodriguez is running as a No Party Affiliation (Nonpartisan Offices) candidate for the Florida Circuit Judge, Circuit 18, Group 17 in the upcoming 2024 Florida Statewide Elections.
Competing against 1 other candidate(s), Kristen Smith-Rodriguez aims to bring their extensive experience to the role as a candidate for Circuit Judge in the Florida State Government.
Kristen Smith-Rodriguez has been a steadfast legal professional and public servant, diligently serving Brevard County since 2011. Raised in Central Florida, she distinguished herself early on as president of the debate team at Winter Springs High School in Seminole County.
Kristen pursued higher education at the University of Central Florida, earning a degree in political science with a minor in legal studies. She then accelerated her studies at Florida Coast School of Law, completing her degree in just two and a half years.
Following her graduation, Kristen relocated to the Space Coast to embark on her legal career.
Kristen began her legal journey as a private attorney before transitioning to her current role as a General Magistrate with the 18th Judicial Circuit in February 2019. As a General Magistrate, she oversees a wide array of cases, including family law matters, child support, Baker Act, and Marchman Act proceedings.
Kristen is dedicated to ensuring impartiality and fairness in her courtroom, providing a respectful environment where every litigant is heard and afforded a fair hearing.
Kristen extends her service beyond the courtroom through her involvement with the City of Titusville. Since 2014, she has been an active member and current chairwoman of the Board of Adjustment and Appeals, upholding the City Code and ensuring that variances are appropriate under established guidelines.
Her commitment to the legal profession is also evident through her role as a board member of the Florida Chapter of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (FLAFCC). Recognizing the need for efficient case management, Kristen co-authored an article in the November/December 2021 issue of the Florida Bar Journal, advocating for a more effective family court intake process.
She also serves as the chair of the annual education program, contributing to the dissemination of quality content and research for family law professionals.
Kristen is deeply rooted in her community, actively participating in the Kiwanis Club of Titusville since 2013. As a member, board member, and past president, she has played a pivotal role in various initiatives aimed at serving children and the community.
Kristen has been instrumental in installing community libraries, providing shoes for students in need, organizing holiday gifts, and mentoring students at Jackson Middle School's Kiwanis Builder’s Club. The Kiwanis Club collaborates with schools and local non-profits, creating a network of support that positively impacts the lives of children and citizens in the community.
Kristen is happily married to Miguel Rodriguez, a firefighter with Orange County Fire Rescue. Together, they enjoy traveling, playing billiards, kayaking, and making their friends laugh.
They take pride in calling Central Florida and the Space Coast their home and continue to contribute meaningfully to their community both personally and professionally.