California Judicial Mentor Program
California Judicial Mentor Program
Together with Stanislaus, Calaveras, and Tuolumne Counties, San Joaquin County is pleased to announce the launch of the California Judicial Mentor Program. The four counties operate the program as a regional collaboration. The program is modeled after a similar initiative launched in Los Angeles and connects mentor judges with local attorneys to increase the applicant pool for new judges. The program’s intent is to support the goal of appointing highly capable judges who reflect the diversity of California.
The program pairs local attorneys committed to public service with judges who help demystify the judicial appointment process. Mentors answer questions about the application and vetting process and suggest skills and experiences that may improve an applicant’s suitability for appointment.
The program works with local bar associations, nonprofit legal organizations, government attorneys, law firms, and solo practitioners to identify and encourage promising judicial candidates to apply for appointment. The goal is to mentor participants in their professional development and create a pipeline of highly qualified applicants eligible for judicial appointment.