Supreme Court Makes Appointments to the Committee on Judicial Ethics Opinions

The California Supreme Court today announced the appointment of two new members and the reappointment of one member to the Supreme Court Committee on Judicial Ethics Opinions (CJEO), an independent committee that helps inform the judiciary and the public on judicial ethics topics.

The court appointed Judge Michael B. Harper of the Superior Court of Trinity County to fill the vacancy that will be created by Judge Robert J. Trentacosta’s retirement next month. Judge Harper will serve the remaining partial term from Nov. 21 through Dec. 31, 2027. 

The court also appointed Judge Patricia L. Kelly of the Superior Court of Santa Barbara County to fill the vacancy that will be created by Justice Marla J. Miller’s departure from the committee at the end of this year following her retirement earlier this month. Judge Kelly will serve a full four-year term beginning Jan. 1, 2027.

The court reappointed Justice Shama Hakim Mesiwala of the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District, to a four-year term beginning Jan. 1, 2027.

About the Committee on Judicial Ethics Opinions (CJEO)

The Committee on Judicial Ethics Opinions is a 12-member advisory committee that includes appellate justices, trial court judges, and commissioners. The committee is appointed and authorized by the California Supreme Court, but its work is independent of the court, the Judicial Council, and all other entities. Its opinions are advisory and do not necessarily reflect the views of the California Supreme Court or any other entity. 

The committee issues formal opinions, informal opinions, and oral advice on proper judicial conduct pursuant to the California Code of Judicial Ethics and other authorities.