Heather Fryman lives two lives. One in the courtroom and one on her farm with her beloved Tennesee Walking Horses. She has always wanted to own horses since she was a child and lives that dream out with her two daughters and husband. The farm is therapeutic for Heather, creating an escape from the harshness of crime and conflict she faces at work.

Judge Heather Fryman takes a moment to collect herself after presiding over a domestic violence case. These types of cases are routine for her as a Family Court judge. She says that she sees the worst in people in her courtroom and that, “you can’t bring that home with you.” Her husband Jeff has been the necessary support system for her since they began dating as “high school sweethearts.” Jeff supported her through her schooling, and now that he is medically retired, Heather continues to support him through her work as a judge.

Donning her robes and retreating to the comfort of a t-shirt is Heather Fryman’s daily routine. When she returns home, she checks on her daughters’ animals, making sure they have been well taken care of.

Heather Fryman has dedicated her life to the pursuit of law and justice. Her degrees above her desk signify the endurance needed to pursue a career as a federal prosecutor for capital punishment cases, and eventually as a family court judge. Back on the farm, her two daughters competitively breed rabbits, Sara, 10, placing 12th in Kentucky, and Taylor, 14, placing 6th.

Heather Fryman walks into the Joe B. Hall Courthouse in Cynthiana, Ky. and is greeted by (front to back) her father-in-law, Wayne Fryman, Timothy Larking, and Charlie Lang. As Kentucky's Judge for the 18th Circuit Division II, Heather plays a crucial roll in determining the fate of families and relationships. As a mother, Heather dedicates her free time to her children, waiting patiently for her daughter Sara to finish ballet practice at the Town & Village Dance Studio in Paris, Ky.

Heather Fryman’s office is at times in disarray. Work can be overwhelming and at times difficult to keep things organized. Returning to her farm to organize 140 acres, nearly 200 animals and two daughters is like an office of its own.

Heather Fryman presides over a juvenile court case at the Pendleton County Judicial Center, where she led a swearing-in of the new members alongside Kentucky Supreme Court Justice Michelle M. Keller. Heather’s dedication to her community and children is echoed through her dedication to her family. Because of her hectic schedule, they are rarely together. However, she would not miss trick or treating with Sara (front-center) and Taylor (front-back) for the world.