As a state court of appeals judge for 5 years, Nowell ensures the law has been applied correctly in state criminal and civil cases, exercises the authority to correct procedural errors or misinterpretations of fact or law by lower appeals and trial courts, and hears applications for court orders that compel and prohibit certain actions by lower courts and government officials.

As an Associate at Simon Greenstone Panatier, PC for 6 years, Nowell researched, drafted, and filed legal documents, represented, and provided defense and counsel to individuals injured and/or killed through their exposure to toxic substances or the prescribed use of pharmaceuticals.

As an Associate at Jones Day for 2 years, Nowell researched, drafted, and filed legal documents and provided defense and counsel to clients focusing on complex commercial litigation in state and federal courts.

Believes there is a need for diversity on the judicial bench, saying "We have 14 courts of appeals – 80 justices. There is exactly one African American; you’re looking at her,"

Said regarding a lack of diversity on the bench and appeals that involve African-Americans "They’re never going to walk into a court and see someone who has a background that could reflect what’s going on in their lives."

Considers "fairness to be a core value in her work on the appellate court..." and said "Nothing is more important than the public's trust in the justice system..."