Sarah I. Zabel

In the dynamic legal scene of Miami, Florida, Sarah Israela Zabel emerges as a beacon of dedication and innovation, passionately pursuing justice. As a president and facilitator at MAZE Resolutions PA, she navigates the complexities of civil, probate and family dispute resolutions across various courts, including state and federal. Her competence also shines in civil cases such as first-party property, construction, real estate, employment and personal injury, and she advocates for minors as a guardian ad litem in probate matters. Moreover, her multifaceted role as a trial strategy consultant and private judge highlights her profound versatility in law.

With a Juris Doctor from Shepard Broad College of Law and a Bachelor of Science in communication from Florida State University, Ms. Zabel's academic journey is as robust as her professional path is varied. Starting with an Associate of Arts Degree from Miami Dade College (formerly Miami-Dade Community College), she laid the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to legal service and advocacy. Between 2003 and 2018, she served as a circuit court judge in Miami-Dade County, overseeing civil, family, juvenile and criminal divisions. Her service on the United States Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit underscores her judicial prowess and dedication to justice.

Before her time on the bench, Ms. Zabel refined her skills in private practice, focusing on civil litigation, employment litigation and family law. As an assistant state attorney, she adeptly handled administrative tasks, training and litigation, particularly in child support enforcement. Her career reflects a deep-seated commitment to mentorship and community engagement. She has contributed to the Miami-Dade County Commission for Women Advisory Board, mentored at-risk high school girls through Women of Tomorrow and participated in Big Brothers Big Sisters. Her leadership in the Miami-Dade Chapter of the Florida Association for Women Lawyers and The Florida Bar Committee on Professionalism illustrates her dedication to advancing the legal field.

In her role as an educator, Ms. Zabel has imparted her knowledge as an adjunct professor at Nova Southeastern University and Miami Dade College, inspiring future legal professionals. Her involvement with boards like Legal Services of Greater Miami demonstrates her dedication to ensuring justice is accessible to all. Her achievements are numerous, with accolades from South Florida Business & Wealth and The Best Lawyers in America. Awards such as the Ally Award for Equality and the Hannah G. Solomon Award for Community Service also highlight her influence beyond the courtroom.

Through lectures and presentations, Ms. Zabel has shared her insights on topics ranging from civil trial techniques to social media in family law, enriching the broader legal conversation. Her initiatives, like the Miami Shine youth advocacy group and the Pro Bono Pilot Project for pro se litigants, reflect a forward-thinking approach to legal challenges, always with a focus on innovation and community impact.