When you think of Judge Judy (real name: Judith Sheindlin), you might immediately picture her no-nonsense demeanor and sharp wit in the courtroom. But beyond the television set and the iconic black robe lies a rich family life that has been the foundation of her incredible success.
For nearly five decades, Judy Sheindlin’s marriage to Jerry Sheindlin has been a cornerstone of her personal world. Their story began not in a courtroom but in a New York bar, where a fiery first encounter saw Judy point a finger at Jerry and demand to know who he was. His quick-witted retort—”Lady, get your finger out of my face”—sparked a connection that has endured ever since.
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Jerry Sheindlin is much more than just the husband of a famous TV personality; he has had an impressive legal career of his own. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, he built a notable reputation in the legal field. He worked as a defense lawyer, later became a judge, and even presided over a landmark case that pioneered the use of DNA evidence in the American justice system.
He also authored books on genetic fingerprinting and briefly stepped into the television spotlight as an arbitrator on The People’s Court in the late 1990s, following Judy’s encouragement. Together, they form a powerful duo whose understanding of the law is matched only by their commitment to each other.
A Blended Family and Lasting Love
Judge Judy’s family life is a beautiful blend of love, resilience, and warmth. Before marrying Jerry, Judy was married to Ronald Levy, with whom she shares two children: Jamie (daughter) and Gregory (son). Jerry, who was also previously married, has three kids from his first marriage: Jonathan, Nicole, and Adam. When Judy and Jerry tied the knot in 1978, they combined their families, creating a dynamic and supportive household. Although they briefly divorced in 1990, they quickly realized their mistake and remarried just a year later, proving that their bond was truly unbreakable.
Today, Judy and Jerry are proud grandparents to thirteen grandchildren, though Judy has always kept the specifics of their names and ages relatively private. Despite her very public career, she has skillfully shielded her family from the spotlight, allowing them to live normal lives away from media scrutiny. In interviews, Judy often highlights the importance of loved ones, and it’s clear that her role as a grandmother brings her immense joy and fulfillment. Her ability to balance a demanding career with a close-knit home is a testament to her resilience and priorities.
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The Sheindlins Today: Laughter and Legacy
Now in their eighties, Judy and Jerry continue to share a life filled with love, laughter, and mutual respect. Judy often jokes that Jerry has maintained the physique and sharp sense of humor that first attracted her to him nearly 50 years ago. Their evenings are spent enjoying each other’s company, often binge-watching crime drama reruns like Law & Order and Criminal Minds. Judy admits she prefers reruns because she hates falling asleep to something new—a quirky habit that reflects her practical and straightforward nature.
As of August 2025, Judy remains actively involved in her television career, presiding over Judy Justice on Amazon Freevee, while Jerry enjoys a well-deserved retirement. Their enduring partnership serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that love, coupled with mutual respect and a shared sense of humor, can withstand the test of time. Judge Judy’s legacy isn’t just that of a pioneering television judge; it’s also that of a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who values family above all else.
