AUGUSTA — A legislative committee gave unanimous approval Wednesday to Superior Court Justice Julia Lipez, who has been nominated to serve on the Maine Supreme Judicial Court.

Lipez, a Maine native who lives in Cape Elizabeth, has served as an assistant U.S. Attorney for Maine, where she focused on human trafficking, child exploitation, fraud and narcotics.

In May 2024, President Joe Biden nominated her to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, but the Senate adjourned before voting on her nomination.

Several people spoke in favor of her nomination during a confirmation hearing before the Judiciary Committee, including a former FBI agent who worked with her on federal investigations, District Attorney Neil McLean and the Maine Trial Lawyers Association.

In addition, a former supervisor called her an “exceptional lawyer” who would serve Maine well on the state’s highest court.

“Julia is a superb lawyer and judge who always conducts herself in the finest traditions of the state and federal judiciary,” said Jonathan Chapman, who is now a law professor at the University of Maine.

During comments to the committee, Lipez said she believes her background will add to the diversity of experiences and voices on the court.

“I hope what I would bring to the law court if I’m fortunate enough to be confirmed first is my experience as a trial court judge,” she said. “Part of the court’s obligation when sitting as the Law Court is to provide clear guidance for the trial courts.”

Lipez is a graduate of Stanford Law School and earned her undergraduate degree at Amherst College. She is Gov. Janet Mills’ sixth new nominee to the Maine Supreme Judicial Court since she took office in 2019.

If confirmed by the Maine Senate, Lipez will join the seven-member court for a seven-year term.