The first female judge of the Supreme Court has passed away on Wednesday, October 22. Maria Laura Santana Maia was 88 years old.
A note on the Superior Council of Magistracy’s website acknowledges the passing of the judge, highlighting her “pioneering” role at a time “when few women held prominent positions in the judiciary.”
“She stood out for her intelligence, rigor, and profound sense of justice, but also for the generosity and attention with which she always welcomed those she worked with,” the note emphasizes. “Her example of courage and dedication leaves a profound mark on the history of the Portuguese judiciary,” it adds.
In a statement of condolence posted on social media, the City Council of Ponte de Sor (where she was born) remembers the judge as a woman “driven by a profound sense of justice and an unwavering will to overcome challenges.”
“Widowed at 30 and mother of two, she decided to resume her studies and, defying the constraints of her time, graduated in Law from the University of Coimbra in March 1974, at the age of 36—a notable achievement that already hinted at the tenacity that would mark her career,” recounts the municipality.
Maria Laura Santana began her career in 1980, with her first position at the Cartaxo Court. Fifteen years later, in 1995, she was appointed as an appellate judge at the Court of Évora. Shortly after, in 2004, she became the first woman appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court—a historic milestone that symbolizes the advancement of gender equality and the recognition of professional excellence in a field long dominated by men, stated the Ponte de Sor municipality.
“She was a testament to courage, perseverance, and love for justice, which honors not only the judiciary but also the land that saw her birth,” the note adds. “Her legacy is today an example for all generations, especially for women aspiring to play an active role in building a more just, freer, and more equal society.”
On social media, the judge’s son also shared a tribute to his mother, accompanied by a video compiling images of the magistrate throughout her life.
The wake for Maria Laura Santana will take place at the mortuary house in Ponte de Sor on Friday, October 24, at 11:00 am. A funeral mass will follow.
