A career built on the law, tested by public service, and recognized for results.
Candace has practiced law and worked directly with students, families, and community members throughout her career, building a deep understanding of the legal and everyday challenges facing Louisiana's citizens.
She currently serves as Of Counsel at the Daly & Black law firm, continuing to practice law alongside her work in public office. In the Legislature, she also serves on the House Judiciary Committee, giving her direct, working knowledge of the laws and procedures that come before Louisiana's courts.
Began her career in public service as an intern with the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus, helping shape policy initiatives and legislative priorities at the State Capitol.
Served as a legislative aide in the Louisiana State Senate, supporting committee work and helping advance legislative priorities and policy initiatives.
Gained hands-on experience in constituent services, legislative research, and public policy development, working directly with New Orleans families on the issues that mattered most to them.
After her time at the Capitol, Candace returned to New Orleans classrooms, teaching at Frances Gaudet Elementary, East New Orleans Education Center, and High School District Learning Center, working directly with students and their families and learning firsthand what New Orleans communities need from their leaders.
Interned for Judge Cantrell in Magistrate Court, gaining early, hands-on exposure to courtroom proceedings and the day-to-day work of the bench.
Served as an Administrative Hearing Officer, presiding over administrative proceedings and applying the law fairly and impartially, experience that speaks directly to the judgment and temperament required on the bench.
Elected to represent House District 99, advocating for families, education, and economic empowerment across Louisiana and building a legislative record centered on fairness and equity.
Practiced law with Don Rouzan and Associates, continuing to build courtroom and client experience alongside her legislative service.
Continues her legal practice alongside her public service, bringing real courtroom and client experience to every role she holds.
Since taking office on January 13, 2020, Representative Newell has been a dedicated advocate for policies that strengthen families, expand educational opportunities, promote economic empowerment, and advance equity for communities across Louisiana. As a judge, that same commitment to fairness will guide how she applies the law to every case. She has championed legislation addressing:
Authored the Teacher's Shield Act (House Bill 283), which passed the Louisiana House by a unanimous 98-0 vote. A former classroom teacher herself, Candace wrote the bill after a close friend was attacked by a student. It requires students who assault a school employee to be removed to an alternative setting for at least two semesters and to complete anger management classes, and it allows assaulted teachers to use up to a year of sick leave for medical and psychological treatment.
Helped pass Louisiana Senate Bill 42, now law, prohibiting the use of artificial intelligence to create child sexual abuse material, part of her broader work for a fairer, more accountable justice system.
Authored Louisiana's CROWN Act (House Bill 1083), protecting workers and students from discrimination based on natural and protective hairstyles. Signed into law by Gov. John Bel Edwards after passing the House 74-24 and the Senate 29-4, it made Louisiana the first state in the Deep South to enact CROWN Act protections.
Helped pass legislation requiring public schools to offer students in grades 3-12 a mental health assessment from a licensed behavioral health provider each year, with parental authorization, expanding early access to care for Louisiana families.
Currently serves on the House Commerce, House and Governmental Affairs, and Judiciary committees, as well as the House Select Committee on Women and Children. Previously served as Chair of the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus, after also serving as its Treasurer and Vice Chair.
Candace's advocacy has been recognized by the organizations and communities she serves.
Candace is ready to bring her legal experience, public service record, and deep community roots to Orleans Civil District Court, Division L.