A 1977 graduate of South High School, Ralph Ramirez earned his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Wisconsin Madison. He returned to Waukesha and worked the Waukesha County District Attorney's office for fifteen years. During his tenure in the DA's office, Ralph wored on a variety of criminal prosecutions and served as the legal supervisor and chief prosecutor for the Waukesha County Metro Drug Enforcement Group. In April, 1999, Ralph was elected judge of Waukesha County's Circuit Branch 3. He has since served as judge in the juvenile court division.

Ralph has been a role model in the Waukesha community. He has served as a trustee for the Waukesha Public Library, co-chaired United Fund campaigns, is a recipient of the Waukesha Education Association "Friend of Education" award, and has been active in his church.

Many South students have met Judge Ramirez during his numerous visits to classrooms over the years to share his expertise with the mock trial team and various classes.