If you’ve been wondering what happened to Yodit Tewolde, the answer is simple: not much. She’s still firmly on the bench.
Despite recent cast shake‑ups and a relocation, she returns for Season 12 alongside Rachel Juarez. Judge Michael Corriero retired at the end of Season 11, but Tewolde continues as one of the enduring voices on the panel.
Season 11 Ends, Corriero Retires, Tewolde Stays
Season 11 marked a major transition point. Longtime judge Michael Corriero, who joined in Season 3 and served through Season 11, bowed out in early 2025.
Yodit Tewolde and Rachel Juarez both officially signed on to return for the upcoming Season 12, confirming they remain integral to the show’s future.
Show Moves to Connecticut, but She’s Onboard
Hot Bench production relocated from Los Angeles to Stamford, Connecticut, starting School 12, lured by generous film tax incentives.
While in late 2024 it wasn’t clear whether the judges would move with production, it’s now confirmed that Yodit Tewolde will continue in her judicial role at the new location.
Who Is Yodit Tewolde? More Than Just a TV Judge
Before Hot Bench, Yodit Tewolde was widely known as a criminal defense attorney in Dallas, founding her firm and serving as an Associate Municipal Judge in the city.
She hosted Making the Case, contributed to America’s Most Wanted, and anchored for Court TV, becoming a go‑to legal analyst on CNN, MSNBC, Fox, and HLN.
She’s been honored as one of the nation’s top lawyers under 40 by the National Bar Association and brings deep insight into criminal justice, appeals, and reform issues.
What Fans Are Saying: Her Chemistry and Courtroom Style
She joined Hot Bench in Season 9 along with Rachel Juarez, and viewers quickly embraced her sharp reasoning and warm on‑camera presence.
On TV Insider, she’s described the Hot Bench family as supportive, saying she’s never felt more at home on television.
She recalls humorous highlights, too; she once put forward a ruling in a $5 latte case that sparked lively debate among the judges, showing how even small claims can be revealing and entertaining.
What’s New in Season 12: Fresh Voices, Same Tewolde
With Corriero’s departure, Daniel Mentzer is joining as the new judge. Mentzer is a veteran criminal trial attorney, known for handling high‑profile cases and serving as a legal expert on Court TV. He starts in Season 12, filming in Connecticut, which began in late March 2025.
Executive Producer David Theodosopoulus praised Mentzer’s addition as bringing “fresh energy” and a compelling dynamic to complement Judge Tewolde and Judge Juarez.
So fans can expect the same trio-style deliberation, just with a new voice alongside Tewolde.
Why She’s Still Relevant: Consistency and Credibility
In an era where many court shows have folded or evolved, Hot Bench has remained strong. Renewed through at least the 2025‑26 season, the show continues to rank among the top original courtroom programs in daytime syndication.
Yodit’s blend of legal credibility and media savvy allows her to connect with viewers, litigants, and the cases. Her return confirms the producers’ value of stability and relatable personalities even during transitions.