About Nadine Hatten

Nadine Hatten has practiced law for 16 years and currently serves as a Juvenile Referee at Oakland County’s Circuit Court, Family Division, where she presides over juvenile delinquency and child neglect cases.

Before becoming a Juvenile Referee, Nadine was appointed as a District Court Magistrate, practiced as a private defense attorney, and worked as a Special Prosecutor for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Before entering the legal profession, Nadine taught high school for 15 years in Detroit Public Schools. As an educator, she helped prepare students for successful futures and was recognized as “Teacher of the Year.” She also served as an elected union steward, where she was a strong advocate for teachers and their rights.

Nadine earned a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate from the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor.

While teaching, she earned a master’s degree in educational administration from Wayne State University and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Wayne State University Law School.

She furthered her legal education by earning an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Criminal Defense from California Western School of Law in San Diego, California.

To further strengthen her advocacy and trial skills, Nadine earned a Civil Mediation Certification, attended the National Criminal Defense College, and gained admission to the Bar of the United States Supreme Court.

Throughout her career, Nadine has been committed to protecting children and families. As an educator, private defense attorney, District Court Magistrate, and Juvenile Referee, she has balanced accountability with ensuring that children and families receive fair treatment, meaningful support, and opportunities to overcome challenges and succeed.

In 2017, the judges of the Oakland Circuit Court, Family Division, honored Nadine with the prestigious Sandra Silver Advocate for Children Award in recognition of her advocacy of children and families. Her dedication to the field has also earned her peer recognition, resulting in her selection as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2015 and consecutively from 2017 through 2020.

As a Juvenile Referee, Nadine is already doing the work every day – serving families and children with fairness, experience, and dedication.

As Oakland County’s next Circuit Court Judge, Family Division, Nadine will build on her commitment to collaboration by continuing to work with stakeholders, community partners, attorneys, and court personnel to ensure that the courts are accessible, effective, and responsive to the needs of the children and families they serve.

With her diverse experience as an educator, private defense attorney, District Court Magistrate, and Juvenile Referee, Nadine Hatten is prepared on day one to serve as Oakland County’s next Circuit Court Judge, Family Division, with fairness, integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to children and families.

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