Accountable | Compassionate | Committed
With a wealth of knowledge and a heart for justice, Ameshia Cooper Chester approaches the law with compassion and accountability. These are the same values she will bring to the Superior Court bench.
The courtroom can be an intimidating place. Ameshia will be a judge who makes it more accessible and treats every person with dignity while applying the law fairly, thoughtfully, and with deep respect for the real-life impact of every decision.
How do you know what Ameshia stands for?
Throughout her career, Ameshia’s work has centered people. In the Durham District Attorney’s Office, she helped victims navigate an often confusing and intimidating court system. She volunteered with the Misdemeanor Diversion Program to help young people keep their records clean and worked with the Driver’s License Restoration Program to dismiss fines and fees so people could get back on the road legally.
Ameshia also served on the board of Rebound Alternatives for Youth, an organization providing an alternative to school suspension so middle school students could continue earning academic credit during short-term suspensions. She continues to volunteer with Durham County Teen Court and Restitution Program, educating young people about both the immediate and long-term consequences of justice system involvement.
At the Attorney General’s Office, Ameshia’s work focuses on integrity and accountability. She has helped ensure that law enforcement officers across North Carolina were ethical and qualified to serve the public. She also represented the ABC Commission, protecting local businesses by preventing out-of-state retailers from undercutting North Carolina wine and bottle shops.
In her current role, Ameshia has secured the return of more than $3 million in embezzled sales and withholding taxes. Those funds now support critical public services, including infrastructure and public schools.