California Courts See a Wave of New Appointments
Governor Gavin Newsom recently announced a significant series of judicial appointments, reshaping the landscape of California’s court system. The appointments include three justices to the Courts of Appeal and seven judges to Superior Courts across the state, signaling a commitment to filling vacancies and bolstering the judicial branch.
Court of Appeal Appointments: A Focus on Experience
The Governor elevated Joanne Motoike to Presiding Justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three. Motoike previously served as an Associate Justice in the same court since 2022, and before that, as a Judge in the Orange County Superior Court from 2013 to 2022. Her background as well includes experience as a Senior Deputy Public Defender and even as a Trial Attorney with the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal.
Stephen Goorvitch was appointed as an Associate Justice to the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Two. Goorvitch brings a wealth of experience from his time as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2015, as well as prior roles as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and Counsel at O’Melveny and Myers. His legal career also includes clerkships and work with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Amy Guerra will serve as an Associate Justice of the Fifth District Court of Appeal, transitioning from her role as a Judge in the Fresno County Superior Court since 2018. Guerra’s experience also encompasses positions as Chief Defense Attorney and Associate at the Fresno County Alternate Defense Office.
Superior Court Appointments: Expanding Capacity Across Counties
The Governor’s appointments extend to the Superior Court level, with new judges assigned to Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Francisco, and Santa Clara counties. These appointments aim to address caseloads and ensure efficient administration of justice at the local level.
Los Angeles County Gains Two New Judges
Los Angeles County will benefit from the addition of two new judges: Victoria Shapiro, previously a Commissioner at the Los Angeles County Superior Court, and Anastasia Zykanova, a Deputy Public Defender at the Orange County Public Defender’s Office. These appointments will help manage the high volume of cases in the state’s largest county.
Other Superior Court Appointments
Carole Bosch will serve in Contra Costa County, bringing experience as an Administrative Law Judge. Thanh Ngo is appointed to Riverside County, with a background as a Deputy District Attorney. Matthew Kahn will join the San Francisco County Superior Court, transitioning from a partnership at Gibson Dunn & Crutcher. Santa Clara County will welcome both Karen Schulz, an Immigration Judge, and Carl Chamberlin, a Lead Appellate Court Attorney.
Compensation for Judicial Roles
The positions of Court of Appeal Justices carry a compensation of $280,052 annually. Superior Court Judges will receive $244,727 per year. These salaries reflect the significant responsibility and expertise required of these roles.
Confirmation Process and Key Players
All appointments require confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which includes Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justices. This process ensures that appointees meet the highest standards of legal qualification and ethical conduct.
FAQ
Q: What is the role of the Commission on Judicial Appointments?
A: The Commission on Judicial Appointments confirms that judicial appointees meet the qualifications and ethical standards required for their positions.
Q: Are all of the appointees Democrats?
A: Yes, according to the provided information, all appointees identified are registered Democrats.
Q: What is the significance of these appointments?
A: These appointments fill critical vacancies within the California court system, ensuring continued access to justice and efficient case management.
Q: Where can I find more information about the appointees?
A: Further details about each appointee’s background and experience can be found on the Governor’s website and through resources like Ballotpedia.
Did you know? Justice Joanne Motoike was honored with multiple awards in 2021, including the Judicial Excellence Award by the Orange County Asian American Bar Association.
Pro Tip: Understanding the backgrounds of judicial appointees can provide insight into potential judicial philosophies and approaches to legal interpretation.
Stay informed about the latest developments in California’s legal system. Explore more articles on our website or subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates.
