Kimberly J. Martin, J.D.

State: Maryland

Kimberly J. Martin joined the Crime and Justice Institute’s (CJI) policy team in June 2024. She brings extensive experience in youth justice and child welfare systems, demonstrating a strong commitment to impacting youth and families in ways that will shape future generations. Prior to joining CJI, Kimberly served as a Senior Federal Policy Associate with the Children’s Defense Fund where she worked on federal policy initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for children and families. Her time there allowed her to influence key legislative efforts and further her commitment to systemic change for disadvantaged youth.

Throughout her career, Kimberly has also served as a student-attorney at Howard University School of Law’s Child Welfare Clinic, interned with the D.C. Superior Court, and worked with various organizations including the American Bar Association’s Youth at Risk Division, the Center for Children’s Law and Policy, and CitySquare AmeriCorps’ Youth Aging Out of Foster Care Division. These experiences have equipped her with firsthand knowledge in addressing and resolving the legal needs of disadvantaged children, youth, and young adults from diverse backgrounds.

With aspirations to become a family court judge, Kimberly is recognized as an authentic voice and powerful advocate. Before completing law school, she spent over a decade in corporate America, where she was known as a trendsetter and valued team player. Kimberly takes pride in mastering concepts and sharing her knowledge to uplift others. As a first-generation lawyer, she is committed to holding doors open for those who follow, driven by her deep love for advocacy and justice.

Kimberly holds a Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Politics, Economics, and Law from the State University of New York College at Old Westbury.