Her Son Had to Become Ready
Sheindlin’s endorsement comes after Levy built his own legal career. He is one of two children she had with former husband Ronald Levy before marrying Jerry Sheindlin, a father of three, in 1977.
Judy and Jerry Sheindlin with family at the Ladies Home Journal “One Smart Lady Award” on February 23, 2000, in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Judy and Jerry Sheindlin with family at the Ladies Home Journal “One Smart Lady Award” on February 23, 2000, in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Growing up in their blended New York City family, Levy learned early that his mother expected independence. He recalled being told, “‘If you want baseball cards, don’t ask me for money.'”
By fourth grade, he was charging neighbors 50 cents a load to do their laundry. Levy later followed his mother into law, although his first plan after graduating from Hofstra Law School tested her patience.
He turned down a job offer and intended to spend a year becoming a ski instructor. When the Suffolk County, New York, district attorney’s office later called the family home and offered Levy a position, Sheindlin answered.
Judge Judy Sheindlin and Adam Levy, with ex-Bronx State Supreme Court Justice Gerald Sheindlin on January 23, 2007 | Source: Getty Images
Judge Judy Sheindlin and Adam Levy, with ex-Bronx State Supreme Court Justice Gerald Sheindlin on January 23, 2007 | Source: Getty Images
“She said, ‘Hi, this is Adam Levy’s mom. And yes, he’s going to take that job,'” Levy recalled. He subsequently worked in private practice and served two terms as Putnam County district attorney. His political career also led to a four-year defamation battle.
A Four-Year Battle Put Levy in the Spotlight
In 2013, Putnam County Sheriff Don Smith issued press releases accusing Levy of interfering with an investigation involving Levy’s friend and personal trainer, Alexandru Hossu. Hossu was eventually cleared of all charges.
In 2017, as Levy’s defamation trial against Smith was beginning, Smith admitted the alleged interference had not occurred, according to CBS News. The case ended in a $150,000 settlement. Smith was required to post an apology and retraction on the sheriff’s department’s website.
Levy, who had left politics and moved to Wyoming, described the lawsuit as his response to political bullying. Sheindlin publicly backed him after the settlement, saying her son had won a battle for his integrity, honesty, reputation, honor, and “the truth.”
That legal career eventually led Levy to television. He joined the Prime Video court series “Tribunal Justice” in 2023 and spent three seasons on its panel of judges. Sheindlin said the experience helped prepare him for a solo program. “Maybe eight years ago he wasn’t ready. He’s ready now,” she said.
