https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/ en https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judicial-council-honors-2025-distinguished-service-and-aranda-access-justice-award-recipients Judicial Council Honors 2025 Distinguished Service and Aranda Access to Justice Award RecipientsCorren, Blaine Tue, 12/16/2025 - 11:27 Feature View photos from award presentation on FlickrView videos from award presentation on Youtube At its Dec. 12 business meeting held last week in San Francisco, the Judicial Council of California honored three recipients of its 2025 Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes people and organizations for their extraordinary leadership and contributions to the administration of justice in California. Two jurists were honored with the Aranda Access to Justice Award, which honors a judge demonstrating a long-term commitment to improving and promoting fairness and access to the courts, especially for low-and moderate-income Californians. The Aranda Award is cosponsored by the Judicial Council, California Judges Association, and California Lawyers Association, in association with the California Access to Justice Commission. Watch the videos below to learn about each award recipient: 2025 Distinguished Service Award HonoreePresiding Justice Arthur Gilbert Throughout his 50 years on the bench, Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert has sought to improve the justice system by serving on Judicial Council committees, volunteering as faculty for judicial education programs, lecturing at State Bar events, and participating in moot court sessions at law schools. In addition, his long-time monthly Daily Journal column “Under Submission” has served to spread his knowledge of the courts, the rule of law, and the opinion-writing process to fellow judges and attorneys. 2025 Distinguished Service Award HonoreeJudge Jonathan Conklin As presiding judge of the Fresno Superior Court from 2014 to 2015, and a longtime member of the court’s executive committee, Judge Jonathan Conklin helped lead the court through significant budget challenges, including the closure of rural branch courts while expanding remote access through video proceedings, electronic warrants, and e-filing. For the past decade, Judge Conklin has also chaired the council’s Trial Court Budget Advisory Committee, guiding the council in assessing new approaches to achieving greater equality in trial court funding. 2025 Distinguished Service Award HonoreeRebbecca Fleming As Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Santa Clara Superior Court, Rebecca Fleming has led numerous technology initiatives to improve public access and streamline internal court operations. She also serves as vice-chair of the council’s Trial Court Budget Advisory Committee (TCBAC) and has testified before the California Legislature to help create viable budget solutions during years of financial uncertainty. 2025 Aranda Access to Justice Award HonoreeJudge Samantha Jessner Judge Samantha Jessner served as presiding judge of the Los Angeles Superior Court from 2023–24. During her tenure, she led efforts to increase access for court users and the public, which included streamlined case processing, a court-connected mediation program, free public transit to residents travelling to and from jury service, and a digital evidence system in the small claims department. Judge Jessner also serves as chair of the council’s Civil and Small Claims Advisory Committee and as vice-chair of its Information and Technology Advisory Committee. 2025 Aranda Access to Justice Award HonoreeJudge Bruce Chan Judge Bruce Chan created the San Francisco Superior Court’s Young Adult Court (YAC) for low-income young adults ages 18–25, many of whom have experienced poverty, abuse and neglect, community violence, homelessness, and systemic marginalization. First of its kind and having inspired similar efforts across the nation, the YAC works with transitional-age youth facing felony charges who seek to have their records expunged in exchange for successful participation in and graduation from the program. Learn more about the award recipients and their work https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judicial-council-announces-2025-distinguished-service-award-recipients Judicial Council Announces 2025 Distinguished Service Award Recipientselaine.chan Mon, 10/13/2025 - 13:55 News Release The Judicial Council of California today announced three recipients of its 2025 Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes people and organizations for their extraordinary leadership and contributions to the administration of justice in California. This year’s recipients are Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert, Judge Jonathan Conklin, and Court Executive Officer Rebecca Fleming. This year’s Aranda Access to Justice Award will be awarded to Judge Bruce Chan and Judge Samantha Jessner. Co-sponsored by the Judicial Council, the California Judges Association, the California Lawyers Association, and the Commission on Access to Justice, the award honors a judge who has demonstrated a long-term commitment to improving access to our courts, and who has significantly improved access for low- and moderate-income Californians. “We honor this year’s recipients for their exceptional contributions to the state’s judicial branch,” said Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero. “Through their dedicated service and commitment, these court leaders have expanded access to justice and inspired us all to continue improving the administration of justice for all Californians.” This year’s Distinguished Service Award recipients are: Presiding Justice Arthur GilbertCourt of Appeal, Second Appellate District, Division Six (Ventura) Throughout his 50 years on the bench, Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert has sought to improve the statewide administration of justice. He has served on many Judicial Council committees, including the Court Interpreters Advisory Panel, Advisory Committee on Legal Forms, and the Center for Judicial Education and Research Governing Committee. Having a passion for judicial education and raising the public’s awareness of the courts, Presiding Justice Gilbert has served as faculty for many judicial education programs, lectured frequently at State Bar events, and participated in moot court sessions at law schools. His long-time monthly Daily Journal column “Under Submission” also serves to spread his knowledge of the courts and the rule of law to fellow judges and attorneys. In addition, his “Gilbert Submits” blog features popular legal commentary from his Daily Journal columns—more than 300 pieces spanning two decades, compiled into two books. Presiding Justice Gilbert began his judicial service at the Los Angeles Municipal Court in 1975, was appointed to the Court of Appeal by former Governor Jerry Brown in 1982, and became presiding justice of his division in 1999. He has served on several Governors' judicial selection committees to help recruit and evaluate qualified applicants for judicial appointment, helping to diversify the applicant pool to communities that have been underrepresented.   Judge Jonathan ConklinSuperior Court of Fresno County Judge Jonathan Conklin has dedicated 40 years to public service, including 20 years as a superior court judge in Fresno County. As presiding judge of the Fresno Superior Court from 2014 to 2015, and a longtime member of the court’s executive committee, Judge Conklin helped lead the court through significant budget challenges, including the closure of rural branch courts while expanding remote access through video proceedings, electronic warrants, and e-filing. He has been a key figure in the court’s judicial education and access to justice efforts. He led the court’s participation in the Fresno County High School Mock Trial Program for 20 years, and also participated in the High School Youth Court Program for well over a decade. From 2018 to 2024, Judge Conklin served on the Judicial Council. Prior to that, he contributed to important Judicial Council workgroups. Those included the Language Access Plan Implementation Task Force, which developed the Strategic Plan for Language Access in the California Courts. Conklin also helped lead the AB 1058 Funding Methodology Workgroup which addressed funding for Child Support Commissioners and Family Law Facilitators.  For the past decade, Judge Conklin has chaired the council’s Trial Court Budget Advisory Committee. In that role, he has guided the council in assessing new approaches to achieving greater equality in trial court funding. Judge Conklin’s leadership has been instrumental in promoting equal access to justice and strengthening the administration of California’s courts, especially during times of budget challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic.   Rebecca FlemingCourt Executive Officer, Superior Court of Santa Clara County Rebecca Fleming has devoted her career to strengthening California’s judicial branch, including serving in senior management roles for more than 18 years before becoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Santa Clara Superior Court in 2017. Fleming has led numerous innovative technological initiatives to improve public access and streamline internal court operations. During her tenure at the Santa Clara Superior Court, she implemented solutions that allow the public to remotely view case information, pay fines and fees, and access real-time court updates, significantly reducing the need for in-person visits. As a vital liaison between her court and county government, Fleming fosters collaboration that enhances community understanding of the courts’ role and promotes civic engagement. Under her leadership, the Santa Clara Court has been repeatedly recognized for its outreach efforts and dedication to public service. These efforts include Law Day contests for students, youth artwork displays in courthouses, and events designed to inspire future legal leaders. Fleming is also a strong advocate for statewide funding equity. In addition to serving as vice-chair of the council’s Trial Court Budget Advisory Committee (TCBAC) since 2013 and co-chair of its Funding Methodology Subcommittee from 2015–2023, she has testified before the California Legislature and worked to help create viable budget solutions during years of financial uncertainty. Throughout her tenure on the council, Fleming has championed initiatives promoting equal access to justice, including policies designed to address the shortage of court reporters, improve interpreter services for limited English speakers, and standardize court data collection. More information on the Distinguished Service Awards and previous recipients Aranda Access to Justice Award Judge Bruce ChanSuperior Court of San Francisco County As the founding judicial leader of San Francisco’s Young Adult Court (YAC), Judge Bruce Chan has spent the past decade creating a model of collaborative justice that expands access to meaningful court engagement for low-income young adults, many of whom have experienced poverty, abuse and neglect, community violence, homelessness, and systemic marginalization. First of its kind in the nation, the YAC was established in 2015 to provide accountability and transformative opportunities based on the neuroscience of the developing brain and the unique needs of young adults ages 18–25. It operates as a collaborative court for transitional-age youth facing felony charges who seek to have their records expunged in exchange for successful participation in and graduation from the program. Judge Chan also champions inter-disciplinary training for members of the collaborative court, including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy, and integrating clinical best practices into courtroom procedures. YAC has inspired similar efforts across the country—Judge Chan and the YAC team have presented over the past ten years at a number of meetings convened by the National Conference of State Legislatures, National League of Cities, and National Center for State Courts.   Judge Chan is a founding member and past chairman of Asian American Recovery Services, formerly the largest provider of substance abuse services to Asian Pacific Americans in California. He was also a member of the task force that established a drug treatment court in the San Francisco juvenile court.   Judge Samantha JessnerSuperior Court of Los Angeles County Judge Samantha Jessner was appointed to the Los Angeles Superior Court in 2007 and served as the court’s presiding judge from 2023–24. During her tenure as presiding judge, she was instrumental in increasing access for court users and the public. As the largest court in the nation, the Los Angeles Superior Court has experienced a significant surge in annual unlimited civil filings since 2008. To ease this backlog, Judge Jessner launched a Pathway Pilot Program for processing unlimited civil filings, an innovative and expansive effort to streamline case processing and promote timely access to justice. In addition, she created the Mediation Volunteer Program, a free or low-cost court-connected mediation program in which certified mediators volunteer their time to resolve civil matters for litigants who cannot otherwise afford a private mediator. In tackling the chronic court reporter shortage, Judge Jessner led her court’s efforts to introduce an internal court reporter training program and enhance incentives for recruitment, offering a paid internship, retention and signing bonuses, and a relocation reimbursement benefit. Recognizing that recruitment alone could not fill all gaps, Judge Jessner also led the expanded use of electronic recording in certain family law, probate, and civil proceedings when no court reporter is available. The goal is to preserve litigants’ access to a verbatim record in situations where fundamental constitutional rights might otherwise be impacted. Under Judge Jessner’s leadership, the Los Angeles Superior Court is one of the first courts in California to partner with public transit agencies to provide free public transit to residents travelling to and from jury service, which increases access to the court, expands civic engagement, and diversifies the court’s jury pools. She also led the court’s technology innovation efforts that helped increase access and streamline the court process for the public. Those efforts included piloting a digital evidence system in the small claims department and implementing the MyCitation ability-to-pay online tool. Furthermore, the Los Angeles Superior Court implemented bail reform for non-serious, non-violent offenders. Rather than determining an arrestee’s release status based solely on a person’s ability to pay an amount of money for bail, under the Pre-Arraignment Release Protocol, a judge determines a person’s risk to public or victim safety, as well as the person’s likelihood of returning to court. This is consistent with the constitutional purpose of bail described above and ensures equal treatment regardless of wealth. Helping to expand access statewide, Judge Jessner serves as vice-chair of the council’s Information and Technology Advisory Committee and chairs its Civil and Small Claims Advisory Committee. More information on the Aranda Access to Justice Award and previous recipients https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judge-ana-espana-named-2025-wilmont-sweeney-juvenile-court-judge-year Judge Ana España Named 2025 Wilmont Sweeney Juvenile Court Judge of the YearKaren.Datangel Wed, 05/21/2025 - 12:48 News Release San Diego County Judge Ana España received the Wilmont Sweeney Juvenile Court Judge of the Year award for 2025 from the Juvenile Court Judges of California (JCJC), a section of the California Judges Association. The JCJC presented the award at its annual meeting on May 15.  The Wilmont Sweeney award, named for the late judge from the Alameda Superior Court, honors judicial officers who exemplify leadership and innovative dedication to California’s youth. Judge España has presided over the juvenile court in San Diego County since 2018. Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed her to the bench in 2008. Prior to her appointment, Judge España served as a deputy public defender with the Primary Public Defender of San Diego County and created a specialized unit to represent children in the dependency system. Judge España champions a “Kin-First” culture in San Diego’s child welfare system to prioritize the placement of children with relatives and extended family. Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero highlighted this effort throughout the state in her 2025 State of the Judiciary Address, citing a 10% increase in safe family placements in San Diego County. “Placement with kin, whenever possible, helps ease the pain of removal from a parent and is so important to a child's well-being," said Judge España. "I am thankful to my colleagues and our justice partners who have worked so hard to increase our kin placements and hope to do even better as we continue our work together.” Judge España also holds town halls and works collaboratively with local agencies and Native American tribes in the county. “By integrating culturally appropriate services, I believe there is more youth/family buy-in and it's more meaningful and relevant to the youth and family. And frankly, it’s just a matter of respect as well,” Judge España said of partnering with tribes in a 2024 interview. Judge España developed the Youth Justice Collaborative in San Diego County to provide a forum for justice partners to address issues in the juvenile court system and leads the San Diego County Child and Family Strengthening Advisory Board, whose mission is to encourage cross-sector collaboration and support the needs of children, youth, and families in the child welfare system. “Throughout her career, Judge España has embodied the values of compassion, integrity, and visionary leadership,” said Presiding Judge Maureen Hallahan of the San Diego Superior Court. “Her influence reaches beyond San Diego, making her a respected figure throughout California. She continues to shape juvenile law and policy, always putting the well-being of youth at the forefront.” In addition to her current role on the bench, Judge España serves as chair of the JCJC. She also serves as a member of the Judicial Council’s Family and Juvenile Law Advisory Committee and the Juvenile Law Curriculum Committee for the Center for Judicial Education and Research. See past recipients of the Wilmont Sweeney Juvenile Court Judge of the Year Award. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/2025-civic-learning-award-application-period-now-open 2025 Civic Learning Award Application Period is Now OpenSoltysik, Penne Mon, 03/03/2025 - 13:29 News Release Now in its 13th year, the Civic Learning Award program honors schoolwide achievements in civics. The award has been presented 541 times to K-12 schools in 32 counties. With some adjustments for this application period, the award program hopes to attract schools in every county in the state.   New Application and Expanded Application Period  Applications were posted on Feb. 28, two weeks earlier than in previous years. The deadline is extended to Apr. 18 versus the traditional Mar. 31 due date.  "Over the years, some applicants have shared their feedback with us about the amount of time it took to complete an application, so we added the video application option," said Justice Judith McConnell, lead of the Chief Justice's Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative. "What led to a few changes this year came from what we learned from teachers who didn't apply."  The 2025 program will also highlight the video application option. These and other updates to the application will be reviewed during a technical assistance webinar for applicants on Mar. 11 at 4 p.m.  "We feel that with these few changes we can make the awards more accessible to every K-12 public school in California," added Justice McConnell. Basis for the Award "The six proven practices for effective civic education have been the foundation of these awards since they launched in 2013. This year, we've added more specific prompts by grade to help guide applicants to include the specific information our scoring panel looks for," said Judge Julia Alloggiamento who helps lead the initiative. "That information includes a summary evaluation of the reach and impact of their efforts." "Judge Alloggiamento's input has helped us look at the application experience with a fresh set of eyes. The support she is providing this program and to prospective applicants is appreciated by me and our co-sponsors," said Justice McConnell. The awards program is made possible in partnership with the California Department of Education, with support provided by the California Lawyers Foundation. For details visit www.powerofdemocracy.org    https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/2025-champions-civics Honoring Champions of Civic Learning: David W. Gordon and Dr. Michelle HerczogSoltysik, Penne Thu, 02/27/2025 - 10:36 Feature SACRAMENTO — Two of California’s most recognized civic learning advocates were selected by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero for the Champion of Civics Award. The state judicial branch leader made the announcement at this year's Civic Learning Summit before an audience of school administrators, students, teachers, and representatives from the California courts.   In presenting the award, the Chief Justice expressed the courts' dependence on an informed public that understands the role of a fair and impartial judiciary. Chief Justice Guerrero presents the Champions of Civics Award to Michelle Herczog and Dave Gordon. "That can't happen without people and organizations like you," said Chief Justice Guerrero. "And I want to emphasize that the courts see and appreciate those of you who've been doing the policy and advocacy work. There are two individuals whose commitment to this work really stands out. I'm honored to ask Dave Gordon and Michelle Herczog to the stage to receive the Champion of Civics Award."     Award Honors Commitment to Civics Education The Champion of Civics award recognizes individuals who demonstrate a long-standing commitment to the advancement of quality civics education in California public schools.  Justice Judith D. McConnell, who leads the Chief Justice’s Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative, spoke to the champions in a congratulatory call shortly after the summit. When asked about the road ahead, Dave Gordon highlighted new legislation (SB 584) recently introduced that would bring more civic learning resources to elementary and middle school classrooms. Michelle Herczog added, "Every day, we read references to the courts--the state courts, the federal courts. I think it is important that our young people understand the important work of the judicial branch and its significant role in our democracy."  View virtual call below: Contributions to the Chief Justice's Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative Following the completion of the work behind the K-12 Task Force on Civic Learning report in 2014, both Gordon and Herczog were appointed by the Chief Justice to serve on the newly-formed Power of Democracy Steering Committee until 2023 when the work of that body concluded. Committee accomplishments included: Establishing Constitution Month Creating and vetting classroom lessons for courts to engage students from kindergarten onward Promoting court outreach opportunities for teachers during remote learning Launching the Civic Learning Award and Judges in the Classroom programs "I attribute much of our current achievement to the service and expertise they lent to the judicial branch over the years," said Chief Justice Guerrero. "I know the road ahead is one we'll continue to navigate together to secure the future of civic participation and leadership in our state."  "Their dedication to this movement is unwavering. They continue to push forward with the same passion and determination that inspired me when we first met," said Justice McConnell. "They are true champions, and I’m thrilled our Chief Justice chose to honor them." The award was first introduced in 2020 and presented in 2021 to three teachers, a community organizer, and an administrator who were celebrated virtually. These 2025 Champion awards are the first to be presented by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero who took office in early 2023.    Biographies David W. Gordon is the Superintendent of the Sacramento Office of Education. He began his career as an elementary school teacher in the South Bronx, N.Y. From 1995–2004, Gordon served as superintendent of the Elk Grove Unified School District. From 2001 to 2003, he served on the President’s Commission on Excellence in Special Education. From 2003–2011, he was appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Education to the National Assessment Governing Board (NAGB), which oversees the National Assessment of Educational Progress (the “Nation’s Report Card”).  Gordon also served on the Power of Democracy Steering Committee from 2014 to 2023. Michelle Herczog, Ed.D. earned her Doctorate Degree in Education from University of California, Los Angeles. Her career in education started in the classroom as a teacher. She took that experience to the Los Angeles County Office of Education where she authored numerous social studies curriculum materials, reports, and resources, and advocated for effective social studies education at local, state, and national levels. This expertise earned her a seat on the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning. Following the release of the Task Force report in 2014, she was appointed by the Chief Justice to serve on the Power of Democracy Steering Committee until that body sunsetted in 2023. Herczog served on the Power of Democracy Steering Committee from 2014 to 2023.   A Shared Mission Gordon and Herczog co-founded Californians for Civic Learning, a non-profit organization aimed at securing a state agenda that elevates and funds civic learning as a priority in public education.  For more details about the work of both Champions, visit the Power of Democracy Timeline:  //--> //--> //--> //-->   These awards are made possible with support from the California Lawyers Foundation. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/california-judges-receive-national-lgbtq-award California Judges Receive National LGBTQ+ AwardKaren.Datangel Tue, 02/11/2025 - 18:28 Feature Trailblazers in the LGBTQ+ legal community, Alameda County Judge Victoria Kolakowski and Los Angeles County Judge D. Zeke Zeidler received the 2025 Stonewall Award from the American Bar Association (ABA) Commission on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. About the Stonewall AwardNamed after the New York City Stonewall Inn police raid and riot of June 28, 1969, which was a turning point in the gay rights movement, the national award recognizes lawyers who have advanced lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals in the legal profession and successfully championed LGBTQ+ legal causes.  Judge Kolakowski and Judge Zeidler join Justice Martin Jenkins of the California Supreme Court as the award honorees from California. Justice Jenkins received the award in 2021. Judge KolakowskiElected by voters to the Superior Court of Alameda County in 2011, Judge Kolakowski is the first transgender judge in California and the first transgender person to serve as a trial court judge of general jurisdiction in the United States. Prior to her election to the bench, Judge Kolakowski served as an administrative law judge and practiced as an attorney for 21 years in California and Louisiana. She is a former president of the International Association of LGBTQ+ Judges. Judge Kolakowski currently serves as a district co-director for California and Nevada in the National Association of Women Judges. “It’s important for people to see and understand that [transgender people] can be judges; we can be all sorts of other things,” Judge Kolakowski said in a 2024 interview. “It’s important for people to see that this is an option if it’s something that they could aspire towards, and I've been truly amazed and blessed by the number of people who've told me that they were inspired by me being a judge to enter the legal profession, or to seek public office because they knew that I had achieved this.” In her acceptance speech at the ABA's award ceremony held February 1 in Phoenix, Judge Kolakowski spoke about her journey to the bench, being a trailblazer in her profession, and being transgender today. “All the things I learned in law school about rights, equality, and freedom -- the things that this country has always stood for -- are protected by the people in this room,” she said in her remarks. Judge ZeidlerThe first openly gay man initially elected to the Superior Court of Los Angeles County in 2004, Judge Zeidler had previously been appointed as a Juvenile Court Referee in 1998 and continues to focus on juvenile issues. Like Judge Kolakowski, he is also a former president of the International Association of LGBTQ+ Judges. “A big part of judicial ethics is about treating people with dignity and respect and ensuring others are too," said Judge Zeidler in a 2024 interview. "The court deals with people from every walk of life. Understanding the litigants who come before us is a major part of the judicial branch’s dedication to diversity and inclusion." In his acceptance remarks, Judge Zeidler spoke on LGBTQ+ history and the importance of diversity on the bench. “What history teaches us is that we need to share our stories. We need to share who we are and what our experiences are.” See Judge Kolakowski and Judge Zeidler's full remarks on ABA News. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judicial-council-announces-2024-distinguished-service-award-recipients Judicial Council Announces 2024 Distinguished Service Award RecipientsKaren.Datangel Thu, 08/15/2024 - 12:42 News Release The Judicial Council of California today announced three recipients of its 2024 Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes people and organizations for their extraordinary leadership and contributions to the administration of justice in California. This year’s recipients of the California judicial branch’s highest award are Justice William W. Bedsworth, Judge Terry B. Friedman (Ret.), and Court Executive Officer Melissa Fowler-Bradley. “This year’s recipients demonstrate what it means to be a public servant,” said chair of the council California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero. “Their contributions have improved access to justice in their own courts and entire statewide judicial system.” This year’s Distinguished Service Award recipients are: Justice William W. BedsworthCourt of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division Three (Santa Ana) Appointed to the appellate court by Governor Pete Wilson in February 1997, Justice William W. Bedsworth is the state’s longest-serving justice on Division Three of the Fourth District Court of Appeal. He started his 38-year career on the bench in 1986, when he was elected to an open seat on the Superior Court of Orange County. During his career on the bench, Justice Bedsworth has been an inspiring presence within the court and the legal community. In 2000, he wrote the opinion in People v. Garcia, which state Senator Carol Migden called "the first gay rights case in the history of the world." The California Legislature explicitly referred to that opinion when it amended Code of Civil Procedure section 231.5 to prohibit any consideration of sexual orientation as a basis for the exercise of a peremptory challenge during jury selection. His legal opinions have spanned many topics, but he is recognized by lawyers for his writings on civility within the profession. Justice Bedsworth served on California's Civility Task Force, and was an outspoken voice committed to improving civility between opposing counsel and between lawyers and the bench. Equally acclaimed for his writings off the bench, through his syndicated monthly column—A Criminal Waste of Space—Justice Bedsworth has educated and entertained lawyers and non-lawyers alike. He is also an avid teacher, having served as faculty at Western State University, Chapman University, the California Judicial College, and the University of California, Irvine Law School. Judge Terry B. Friedman (Ret.)Superior Court of Los Angeles County Judge Terry B. Friedman (Ret.) served on the bench at the Superior Court of Los Angeles County from 1995-2010. He spent much of his time in Los Angeles presiding over the juvenile court. His interest and commitment to improving the court system for families and children led to his appointment to the California Blue Ribbon Commission on Children in Foster Care. The commission provided recommendations to the Judicial Council on the ways in which the courts and their child welfare partners could improve safety, permanency, well-being, and fairness outcomes for children and families in the state. Judge Friedman has also devoted much of his time both on and off the bench to increasing access to justice for underrepresented litigants. He served as chair of the Judicial Council’s Shriver Civil Counsel Act Implementation Committee, which makes recommendations on the selection and funding of pilot projects that provide legal representation to low-income parties in civil matters involving critical issues affecting basic human needs. Prior to joining the court, he worked in private practice at the Western Center of Law and Poverty and as executive director of Bet Tzedek Legal Services, which both advocate and promote fair and equal access to justice for low-wage individuals. Judge Friedman has also worked to improve the court system through his work on many statewide advisory groups, including the Judicial Council’s Executive and Planning Committee, Legislation Committee, and Family and Juvenile Law Advisory Committee. He also served on the Task Force on Judicial Selection and Retention, Probation Services Task Force, and Legal Services Trust Fund Commission. Melissa Fowler-Bradley Court Executive Officer, Superior Court of Shasta County Melissa Fowler-Bradley has spent 50 years in public service, the last 47 for the state’s judicial branch. She joined the staff of the Superior Court of Alameda County in 1977, moved to the Superior Court of Shasta County in 1995 to be its assistant court executive officer, and eventually was elevated to court executive officer in 2008. Fowler-Bradley has served her court with distinction, which includes leading local court improvement measures/initiatives like advancements in e-search warrants, court collections and ability-to-pay tools, case management systems, jury service, and digitizing court records, to name a few. Fowler-Bradley has also improved the administration of the California courts on the statewide level. She has served on the Judicial Council’s Court Facilities Advisory Committee, and its Cost Reduction Subcommittee. Those groups’ efforts have demonstrated to the Governor and Legislature the judicial branch’s ability to oversee the maintenance and construction of the more than 450 court facilities around the state. Fowler-Bradley has also worked to improve the judicial system through her work on many other statewide advisory groups, including the Judicial Council’s Trial Court Budget Working Group, Court Facilities Advisory Committee, Court Security Advisory Committee, Criminal Law Advisory Committee, Family and Juvenile Law Advisory Committee, Court Executives Advisory Committee, Court-Ordered Debt Task Force, and Criminal Justice Realignment Working Group. More information on the Distinguished Service Awards and previous recipients https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/2024CivicLearningAwards Awards Honor Advancements in Civic Learning in Public Schools Karen.Datangel Wed, 05/01/2024 - 14:25 News Release On Law Day 2024, twenty-one California public schools received this year's Civic Learning Award, one of the most competitive civic learning accolades in the state. Now in its 11th year, the award is co-sponsored by California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. “I find these award applications inspiring; they all deserve our recognition,” said Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero. “They tell the important stories of dedicated educators who, despite the challenges, are creating room for students to fully understand and practice civics.” ANNOUNCEMENT: “We know that when young people activate their voices, they can be among the strongest change agents in our communities,” said Thurmond. “Education is the cornerstone of realizing our democratic ideals, and these schools have made extraordinary contributions to building the leaders of tomorrow.” Since their inception in 2013, the awards have honored 519 traditional, charter, and magnet schools. In recent years, community schools and continuation schools have also submitted high-ranking applications. This year, a court school applied for the first time. In addition to the information provided by the applicant, points are added for schools in districts with Local Control and Accountability Plans (LCAPs) that include terms and actions associated with civic learning. Applicants also earn points for participating in the Judges in the Classroom program, and for creating processes and criteria related to the State Seal of Civic Engagement.  Schools at the highest level, Award of Excellence, receive a visit from California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero in September (Constitution Month), while judges from California Courts present the awards of Distinction, Merit, and Honorable Mention.  Schools honored with the Civic Learning Award of Excellence:   Madera Elementary School, Ventura County  Natomas Pacific Pathways Preparatory Middle School and High School, Sacramento County  John F. Kennedy High School, Orange County Schools honored with the Civic Learning Award of Distinction:  Ida Jew Academy and Valle Vista Elementary School (IJAVVE), Santa Clara County  Newton Middle School, Los Angeles County Yerba Buena High School, Santa Clara County Schools honored with the Civic Learning Award of Merit: Daves Avenue Elementary School, Santa Clara County Workman Elementary School, Los Angeles County South Junior High School, Orange County Anaheim High School, Orange County The following schools earned an Honorable Mention: Garfield Elementary School, Fresno County Tarpey Elementary School, Fresno County Maple Creek Elementary School, Fresno County Sierra Vista Middle School, Los Angeles County Sparks Middle School, Los Angeles County Santiago Charter Middle School, Orange County Mount Madonna High School, Santa Clara County Norte Vista High School, Riverside County Santa Clara High School, Santa Clara County Cordova High School, Sacramento County Granite Hills High School, Tulare County See past award recipients The Civic Learning Award program is administered by staff of the Judicial Council supporting the judicial branch Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative.    The awards program receives generous support from the California Lawyers Association.   https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judicial-council-honors-2023-distinguished-service-and-aranda-access-justice-award-recipients Judicial Council Honors 2023 Distinguished Service and Aranda Access to Justice Award RecipientsCorren, Blaine Tue, 11/28/2023 - 15:00 Feature View photos on Flickr The Judicial Council of California honored two recipients of its 2023 Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes people and organizations for their extraordinary leadership and contributions to the administration of justice in California. One jurist was honored with the Aranda Access to Justice Award, which honors a judge demonstrating a long-term, tireless commitment to improving, and promoting fairness and access to the courts, especially for low-and moderate-income Californians. The Aranda Award is cosponsored by the Judicial Council, California Judges Association, and California Lawyers Association, in association with the California Access to Justice Commission.  Watch the videos below to learn about each recipient: 2023 Distinguished Service Award HonoreePresiding Justice Lee Smalley Edmon Presiding Justice Lee Smalley Edmon was the first woman to be named presiding judge of the Superior Court of Los Angeles County in that court’s 170-year history. During her tenure as presiding judge, she worked with judicial and legislative representatives to make difficult decisions on court closures made necessary by budget cuts to the courts. Presiding Justice Edmon has also been instrumental in supporting efforts to expand the diversity of California’s judiciary and has worked to expand legal assistance to those who can’t afford it.   2023 Distinguished Service Award HonoreeJustice Marsha Slough Justice Marsha Slough has been a leading voice on key branch initiatives through three consecutive terms on the Judicial Council. She chaired the council’s Executive and Planning Committee and played a key role in drafting emergency court rules during the COVID-19 pandemic. Justice Slough also chaired the Pretrial Reform and Operations Workgroup, which launched pretrial pilots that have since grown to include programs in all 58 counties.   2023 Aranda Access to Justice  Award HonoreeJudge Mark A. Juhas Judge Mark A. Juhas has dedicated his career to improving services and access to justice in family court, particularly for low- and moderate-income, self-represented litigants. That work included a program to educate and promote the practice of family law to attorneys statewide and a national movement to connect practical training for newer lawyers to help provide affordable legal assistance to low- and moderate-income clients. Learn more about the award recipients and their work https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/chief-justice-resumes-visits-schools-honor-fresnos-maple-creek-elementary-school Chief Justice Resumes Visits to Schools to Honor Fresno's Maple Creek Elementary SchoolSoltysik, Penne Thu, 09/28/2023 - 16:44 Feature 5 Things to Know: California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero presented the Civic Learning Award of Excellence to Maple Creek Elementary School Only one other school in Fresno has been presented the Award of Excellence (Tarpey Elementary in 2022). Maple Creek Elementary School is in the Clovis Unified School District, the most awarded school district in Fresno County with 52 awards. For 2023, six Fresno County schools were selected to receive awards (view full list). The visit comes at the end of Constitution Month, a commemoration sponsored by the Chief Justice's Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative. California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero ended Constitution Month with a visit to Fresno County to present the Civic Learning Award of Excellence to Maple Creek Elementary School, restoring a tradition put on hold during the pandemic. During her visit, students, teachers, and district representatives presented the chief justice with details of their ongoing civic learning efforts.  “Civics is foundational to educating the next generation of our leaders and strengthening our local communities," said Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero. “I'm looking forward to honoring the teachers and students of Maple Creek Elementary and to learning even more about their engagement programs.” Since the awards inception in 2013, thirty-three elementary, middle, and high school awardees have received the awards program’s highest honor, the Award of Excellence. Tarpey Elementary was the first school in Fresno County to receive the honor back in 2022. The awards program is co-sponsored by the Chief Justice and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. Applications for the 2024 awards will be posted here on March 1, 2024.