Yodit Tewolde (born December 10, 1982) is an American criminal defense attorney, television judge, and legal analyst best known for serving as one of three judges on CBS Media Ventures’ Emmy-nominated syndicated court program Hot Bench.
The 42-year-old Eritrean-American legal expert has established herself as a prominent figure in both the courtroom and television industry. She currently continues her role on Hot Bench for Season 12 alongside Judge Rachel Juarez and new addition Judge Daniel Mentzer, following the retirement of Judge Michael Corriero in 2025.
Yodit Tewolde Wikipedia
| Full Name: | Yodit Tewolde |
| Date of Birth: | December 10, 1982 |
| Age: | 42 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace: | Khartoum, Sudan |
| Nationality: | American (Eritrean heritage) |
| Residence: | West Hollywood, California |
| Height: | 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Occupation: | Criminal Defense Attorney, Television Judge, Legal Analyst |
| Years Active: | 2009–present |
| Known For: | Hot Bench, Making the Case, America’s Most Wanted |
| Education: | Texas A&M University (BA); Southern University Law Center (JD) |
| Net Worth (2025): | Estimated $500,000–$2 million |
| Marital Status: | Private (not publicly confirmed) |
Early Life
Yodit Tewolde was born on December 10, 1982, in Khartoum, Sudan, to Eritrean parents who had sought refuge from the Eritrean-Ethiopian war. Her family immigrated to the United States when she was an infant, settling in Dallas, Texas, where she was raised.
Growing up in Dallas, Tewolde attended W.T. White High School. She watched her parents work tirelessly to establish themselves in America, which instilled in her a strong work ethic from an early age. Her parents’ dedication to building a better life significantly influenced her drive for success.
The immigrant experience shaped Tewolde’s perspective on justice and advocacy, motivating her later career in criminal defense and her commitment to representing underserved communities.
Education
Tewolde earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in Communications from Texas A&M University. During her undergraduate years, she pledged and became a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
She subsequently pursued her Juris Doctorate at Southern University Law Center, graduating in 2009. While in law school, Tewolde served as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Race, Gender and Poverty, demonstrating her early commitment to social justice issues.
Her academic excellence and leadership during law school foreshadowed her future success in both legal practice and media.
Career
Legal Career
After graduating law school, Tewolde began her legal career as a law clerk for the Honorable Trudy M. White in the 19th Judicial District Court. She then joined the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office as an Assistant District Attorney, where she prosecuted cases in both adult and juvenile systems.
Following several years as a prosecutor, Tewolde transitioned to criminal defense work and founded The Law Office of Yodit Tewolde, PLLC. Her firm focuses on providing client-centered, aggressive legal representation for individuals facing criminal prosecution.
In 2016, she was recognized as one of the nation’s top lawyers under 40 by the National Bar Association, receiving their prestigious “40 Under 40” award.
Media Career
Tewolde’s legal expertise caught the attention of major media outlets. She appeared as a legal analyst on CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and HLN, providing commentary on high-profile cases and criminal justice issues. She also served as an Opinion Contributor for The Hill.
She hosted and served as managing editor of Making the Case on the Black News Channel and worked as a legal analyst on the reboot of America’s Most Wanted. She previously hosted Court TV Live on Court TV.
Hot Bench
In 2022, Tewolde joined the syndicated court show Hot Bench as one of three judges. Created by Judge Judy Sheindlin, the show allows viewers to witness judicial deliberation between multiple judges. She continues in this role for Season 12 in 2025, working alongside Judge Rachel Juarez and new addition Judge Daniel Mentzer.
Personal Life
Tewolde maintains privacy regarding her personal relationships. While some sources suggest she may be married, she has not publicly confirmed her marital status or disclosed information about a husband. She reportedly does not have children.
She currently resides in West Hollywood, California, and describes herself on social media as an “immigrant, advocate, lawyer, [and] fav tv judge.”
Tewolde is known for her minimalist fashion sense, often wearing neutral colors and well-tailored pieces. She has expressed admiration for designers like Fear of God, Maison Margiela, and Christopher John Rogers.
Body Measurements
Yodit Tewolde stands at approximately 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) tall. She maintains a professional appearance both in and out of the courtroom, with dark hair and brown eyes. Her exact weight and other body measurements are not publicly disclosed.
Tewolde is known for her impeccable style and professional wardrobe choices, often featuring sharp, tailored pieces that reflect her legal background and television presence.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Yodit Tewolde’s estimated net worth ranges between $500,000 and $2 million. Her income sources include her television role on Hot Bench, her private law practice, speaking engagements, and previous media appearances.
Her television career, combined with her successful legal practice and media commentary work, has contributed significantly to her financial success.
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References
- All American Speakers Bureau. “Yodit Tewolde Biography”
- D Magazine. “A Dallas Lawyer’s Jump from Courtroom to Green Room”
- Essence. “Yodit Tewolde Is Reveling In A Newfound Fashion Freedom”
- Hot Bench. “Meet the Judges”
- Southern University Law Center. “Yodit Tewolde, Class of 2009, named a 2016 NBA ’40 Under 40′ Award Recipient”
- Deadline. “‘Hot Bench’ Brings In New Judge & Bailiff For Season 12”
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