Tuesday, May 14, 2024

CJA confirms new PJ & Justices

The CJA held hearings today confirming the appointments of Justice Gonzalo Martinez as PJ of 2/7, Judge Natalie P. Stone to 2/7, and Tara Desautels to 1/2. All three were sworn in immediately after their hearings.

With today's confirmations, the only open seat in the 2d is the PJ spot for Division 5. In the 1st, there are two open seats (in 1/4 and 1/1).

See 3 Justices Confirmed to Los Angeles, San Francisco Appellate Courts -- Following Tuesday's confirmations, the Judicial Council announced it will expand a mentorship program for aspiring appellate justices to include attorneys interested in becoming research counsel in the state's courts of appeal.

Law360 has Ex-Squire Patton Atty Among Latest Calif. Judges Sworn In

  • Justice Martinez told the commission he truly loves his job, but also strives to remembers that "behind every case is a person." With his elevation to presiding justice, he has become one of the highest-ranking openly gay men in the state's judiciary. During his speech, Justice Martinez mentioned Supreme Court Justices Martin J. Jenkins and Kelli Evans, both members of LGBT community, as inspirations.
  • Friends and colleagues speaking for her called Justice Stone "conscientious" and "making those around her look better" due to her dedication and commitment to the job. ... After being sworn in, Justice Stone noted the importance of remembering the laws affect the human. "I intend to keep in mind the human facet rather than just the cold facts," she said.
  • Speaking on her behalf, Judge Charles Smiley of the Alameda County Superior Court called Justice Desautels an "exceptional talent" and "a big thinker" who cares about the institution of the judicial branch and the job jurists are doing. ... Supreme Court Justice Carol A. Corrigan lauded Justice Desautels, calling her an exceptional candidate and "the real deal," praising Justice Desautels' ability to explain the intricacies of the law with great clarity.
  • In 2023, the associate judges of the court received a salary of $264,542, according to the National Center for State Courts.