Category: Uncategorized

COLLABORATIVE COURTS TO HOLD GRADUATION CEREMONY

Posted on

Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.  Bob Hope Theater, 242 E. Main Street, Stockton, CA

STOCKTON, CA – Celebrating Milestones in Recovery: Collaborative Court Program Graduation.

“We are delighted to announce the graduation of over 240 participants from our Collaborative Court Programs. Our programs address drug-related offenses through rehabilitative approaches, which have proven to be instrumental in supporting participants on their journey to recovery. The Collaborative Court Programs have reduced recidivism rates and improved participants’ lives. We remain committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based, and practical approaches to addressing drug addiction within our community. When a member of our community finds sobriety, we, collectively as a whole, win.” – Kelly Placeres, Director of Collaborative Courts

“I have attended graduations in the past, but last year I was shaking hands and congratulating the graduates for the first time as a Collaborative Court judge; always a  joyful and heartwarming celebration of accomplishment!” – Judge Carter Holly

The graduation program will feature:

Congratulatory Remarks—Assemblywoman Rhodesia Ransom. Assemblywoman Ransom represents California’s 13th Assembly District, which includes the vibrant communities of Stockton, Tracy, and Mountain House. With over two decades of experience in public service, the Assemblywoman has been a fierce advocate for social justice, equitable education, and economic empowerment. As a former Tracy City Councilmember and non-profit leader, she stood up for the most vulnerable, strengthened economic opportunities, and fought to reduce homelessness in the region.

Key Note Speaker—William Smith, Jr. William Smith, Jr. is a singer, songwriter, entertainer, and recording artist. He has 33 years in recovery from alcoholism, earned a counseling certification from the University of the Pacific, and labors passionately to help people break free from addiction.

Graduate Speaker—Stephen Chew. Despite spending 14 years in prison and struggling with opiate addiction, Stephen has emerged resilient and determined. Since entering Parole Reentry Court program in January 2024, Stephen enrolled and graduated from UEI College Trade School with a certificate in electrical work. He is now enrolled at Delta College. He completed the Geo Reentry program and now serves as a mentor, guiding newly enrolled clients.

Graduate Speaker—Justin Herring.  Justin’s life had been marred by a long struggle with meth and alcohol addiction, leading him in and out of prison. He entered Dependency Drug Court in December of 2023. He completed 120 days in residential treatment, secured a good position at a concrete company, and established a strong support system. Justin faced many struggles during his early recovery, but remained unwavering in his commitment to change and reunifying with his child.  He was awarded full custody of his daughter on February 13, 2025.

              For more information, please contact Kelly Placeres at 992-5225.

Collaborative Courts to Hold Graduation CeremonyDownload

###

SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT  SEEKING APPLICANTS TO SERVE ON THE 2025-2026 CIVIL GRAND JURY

Posted on

Stockton, CA — The San Joaquin County Superior Court is seeking applicants to serve on the fiscal year 2025-2026 San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury. The deadline for application submission is April 15, 2025.

Applications can be obtained by calling (209) 992-5695. Applications can also be found on the court’s website at: http://www.sjcourts.org/general-info/civil-grand- jury or by scanning the QR code on the press release.

Members of the 2025-2026 Civil Grand Jury will begin serving on July 1, 2025. The Grand Jury is comprised of nineteen citizens whose names are randomly selected from applicants nominated by the Judges of the Superior Court. The Civil Grand Jury inquires into and investigates the functions and operations of governmental bodies, agencies, and public officials within San Joaquin County, as well as investigates complaints received from the public. Past reports have focused on juvenile group homes, community college and school districts, jail operations, special districts, and housing authorities.

Positive comments from recent past grand jurors regarding their involvement and their experiences include, “A strong desire to serve our citizens and making sure all governmental agencies are doing their job.” “I love the fact that jurors have vast knowledge in the field they have worked in, which give first-hand experience to topics discussed . . .” and, “Meeting a wide variety of community members and working together.”

Applicants must be able to work in-person and have the ability to work remotely via telephonic or video appearance(a smart phone and internet access are required).

A Grand Juror must be at least 18 years of age, a United States citizen who has resided in San Joaquin County for at least one year, possess sufficient knowledge of the English language, and is not now serving as a trial juror or elected public official. Qualified applicants may be interviewed by a Superior Court Judge. The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office will conduct background investigations, which     includes a record check from law enforcement agencies.

San Joaquin County Superior Court Seeking Applicants to Serve on the 2025-2026 Civil Grand JuryDownload

###

SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT TO REOPEN LODI BRANCH

Posted on

On February 3, 2025, San Joaquin County Superior Court’s Lodi Branch Court will reopen to the public resuming services to the Lodi community,  marking a significant step in our continued efforts to serve the surrounding community and ensure the accessibility of justice to north county.

The case types that will be handled at the Lodi Branch Court are:

  • Criminal Arraignments, Pre-Trial Conference, Motions (misdemeanor out-of–custody matters)
  • Traffic
  • City Code Violations
  • Small Claims
  • Limited Civil (Civil Harassments—Lodi only, Name Changes—all County)
  • Probate (including Civil Minors Comp, Guardianships, Mental Health, and Conservatorships)

We are confident that resuming operations in Lodi will help alleviate some of the workload on other court locations while providing the local community with more convenient access to essential court services. 

Please visit the Court’s website at www.sjcourts.org for additional information.

San Joaquin County Superior Court To Reopen Lodi BranchDownload

                                                                   ###

SAN JOAQUIN SUPERIOR COURT LAUNCHES COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE, RECOVERY, AND ENPOWERMENT (CARE) ACT PROGRAM

Posted on

Stockton, CA — On  December 1, 2024, the Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin, will accept petitions for the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment Act Program (CARE). Established by Senate Bill 1338, the CARE Act empowers a broad range of persons including family members, behavioral health professionals, licensed clinicians, first responders, public guardians, conservators, and others with close ties to an individual to petition the court on behalf of a person experiencing debilitating mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorders. The CARE Act creates a pathway to connect eligible individuals (called “respondents”) to treatment and  services, focusing on long-term recovery through a structured court process. 

San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services (SJBHS) will evaluate eligibility, coordinate treatment and supportive services, and ensures program standards are met. When necessary, the Public Defender will provide legal representation for respondents who cannot afford their own attorney, ensuring their rights are protected throughout the process.  For additional information on SJBHS services visit their website at www.sjcbhs.org

If a respondent qualifies, a CARE agreement or plan may be developed and ordered by the court. Beginning December 1, 2024, CARE Act Petitions will be accepted at the Stockton Superior Court. Filing a petition is free of charge. CARE act proceedings are  confidential and will not be open to the public. CARE Act proceedings will take place each week on Monday at 9:00 a.m. in Department 9A, at the Stockton Court House, located at 180 E Weber Ave, Stockton, CA, 95202.   For additional information and resources visit www.sjcourts.org

                                                                   ###

Superior Court Launches Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act ProgramDownload

National Adoption Day

Posted on

Stockton, CA — On Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., the Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin, will host National Adoption Day with San Joaquin County Human Services Agency, Parents by Choice, Family Extension Foster Care, Foster  Family Agency, VBR Foster Family Agency, Wayfinder Family Services, and The Linus Project. This year’s event will celebrate and finalize adoptions for 18 families and 22 children.

This event will be presided over by Judges Guy Castillo, and Sabrina Schneweis-Coe. Judge Erin Guy Castillo will begin with a brief welcome and introduction. 

Upon reflection of this eventful day, Judge Erin Guy Castillo said, “The court is honored and excited to participate in adoption Saturday and give forever homes to so many deserving children in our community.   The positive impacts that come from finding permanency and stability for our youth is important and valuable.”

Volunteers from the court and agencies participate in this special day by working together to celebrate the joys of adoption and encourage more families and individuals to give children permanent families through adoption.

National Adoption Day has been celebrated across the nation on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and to raise awareness of the more than 108,000 children and youth in foster care waiting to find a permanent and loving family. Over the past 25 years, the nationwide collective effort of judges, lawyers, court staff, foster professionals, child advocates, sheriff personnel, and many others has made the dreams of over 85,000 children and youth come true by working on this one special day to finalize adoptions for children and youth in foster care.

For your convenience, here is information regarding the event:

· Event begins at 9:30 a.m., Jury Assembly Room 12th floor

· Court opens to families at 8:30 a.m.

· Welcome/Introduction: Judge Erin Guy Castillo

· Stockton Courthouse – 180 E. Weber Ave., Stockton, CA

· Members of the public and press are invited to attend court in person. Press interested in recording court proceedings via TV camera and recorder, still camera, and/or audio must complete required paperwork. Please send requests to mediarequest@sjcourts.org.

National Adoption Day, November 23, 2024Download

###

NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY

Posted on

Stockton, CA — On Saturday, November 23, 2023, at 9:30 a.m., the Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin, will host National Adoption Day with San Joaquin County Human Services Agency, Parents by Choice, Family Extension Foster Care, Foster  Family Agency, VBR Foster Family Agency, Wayfinder Family Services, and The Linus Project. This year’s event will celebrate and finalize adoptions for 18 families and 22 children.

This event will be presided over by Judges Guy-Castillo, and Sabrina Schneweis-Coe. Judge Erin Guy-Castillo will begin with a brief welcome and introduction. 

Upon reflection of this eventful day, Judge Erin Guy-Castillo said, “The court is honored and excited to participate in adoption Saturday and give forever homes to so many deserving children in our community.  The positive impacts that come from finding permanency and stability for our youth is important and valuable.”

Volunteers from the court and agencies participate in this special day by working together to celebrate the joys of adoption and encourage more families and individuals to give children permanent families through adoption.

National Adoption Day has been celebrated across the nation on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and to raise awareness of the more than 108,000 children and youth in foster care waiting to find a permanent and loving family. Over the past 25 years, the nationwide collective effort of judges, lawyers, court staff, foster professionals, child advocates, sheriff personnel, and many others has made the dreams of over 85,000 children and youth come true by working on this one special day to finalize adoptions for children and youth in foster care.

For your convenience, here is information regarding the event:

· Event begins at 9:30 a.m., Jury Assembly Room 12th floor

· Court opens to families at 8:30 a.m.

· Welcome/Introduction: Judge Erin Guy-Castillo

· Stockton Courthouse – 180 E. Weber Ave., Stockton, CA

· Members of the public and press are invited to attend court in person. Press interested in recording court proceedings via TV camera and recorder, still camera, and/or audio must complete required paperwork. Please send requests to mediarequest@sjcourts.org.

National Adoption Day November 23, 2024Download

###

OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY AWARDS $214,020 GRANT TO  SUPERIOR COURT OF  SAN JOAQUIN, FOR DEDICATED  IMPAIRED DRIVING  COURT PROGRAM           

Posted on

Stockton, Calif. –Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin is pleased to announce it has been awarded a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). The grant program runs from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, with the goal of reducing the number of persons injured or killed in alcohol-related collisions in San Joaquin County.

The San Joaquin DUI Court Program began in 2008 and targets all repeat DUI offenders in Stockton. The program includes a treatment track designed for offenders with substance dependence or addiction, focusing on providing substance abuse treatment in conjunction with continuous alcohol monitoring, drug testing, and regular court appearances. Additionally, the program will reintroduce a monitoring track focused on monitoring and regular court appearances for repeat offenders who are assessed to not have a dependence or addiction problem.

This grant will allow the San Joaquin DUI Court Program to enhance its established program by focusing on the reintroduction of the two-tier system and capacity building. The grant provides two full-time case managers. Case managers service the courts and community by assisting the Court with improving offender accountability, increasing court appearance rates, and enhancing retention and successful completion of outcomes of DUI Court Program participants.

The grant will also support the Choices and Consequences school outreach program to educate middle school and high school students on the dangers of driving while under the influence. The Court has adapted the program to continue in a virtual environment in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and expects to reach several hundred students during the grant period.

DUI Court partners with healthcare treatment providers, social services, and other community-based organizations to develop an effective course of treatment for participants through a combination of judicial supervision and other supportive services.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.   

The Office of Traffic Safety Awards $214,020 Grant to Superior Court of San JoaquinDownload

    ###

SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 PROPOSED BUDGET 

Posted on

Pursuant to Government Code section 68511.7, the Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin is providing the public with notice and opportunity for comment prior to adoption of the trial court’s Proposed Baseline Budget Plan for Fiscal Year 2024-25.

The Court will accept written comments on the Proposed Baseline Budget Plan (attached) through 5 p.m. on Monday, October 14, 2024. Per Government Code section 68511.7(d), the Court is not obligated to provide responses to the comments received. Please submit your comments electronically to eochoa@sjcourts.org or by mail to:

Erica A Ochoa
Assistant Court Executive Officer
180 E. Weber Ave., Ste. 1306E
Stockton, CA 95202

The proposed budget will be adopted by the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court five (5) business days following the posting of this notice.

San Joaquin County Superior Court Seeks Public Comment Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Proposed BudgetDownload

                                                                    ###

Public Notice: Receipt of Annual Allocation of the Trial Court Budget After Enactment of the Budget Act of 2024

Posted on

Stockton, CA — The Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin is in receipt of the annual allocation of the 2024-2025 trial court budget from the Judicial Council of California following the enactment of the Budget Act of 2024.

California Rule of Court 10.620(f) requires trial courts to provide notice no later than 15 court days after “receipt of the annual allocation of the trial court budget from the Judicial Council after enactment of the Budget Act.” The Trial Court Budget Advisory Committee’s reports to the council provide helpful discussion and detail behind the allocations and can be viewed by following the links below on the California Courts website:

###

Receipt of Annual Allocation of the Trial Court Budget After Enactment of the Budget Act of 2024Download

THE GOVERNOR APPOINTS TWO JUDGES TO THE SAN JOAQUIN SUPERIOR COURT BENCH

Posted on

Stockton, CA — On June 18, 2024, the Governor appointed two Judges: Judge Katy Jacot and Judge Gurjit Singh Srai, to the San Joaquin Superior Court Bench.

Judge Katy Jacot has been appointed to serve in an interim appointment as a Judge in the San Joaquin County Superior Court.  Judge K Jacot served as a Commissioner at the San Joaquin  County Superior Court since 2023.  She served as a Deputy Public Defender at the San Joaquin’s Pubic Defender’s Office from 2007 to 2022.  She was an Associate at Oium, Reye,& Pryor from 2006 to 2007 and at O’Conner, Cohn, Dillon & Barr from 2003 to 2006.  Jacot was an Associate at Branson, Brinkop, Griffith & Strong LLP from 2001 to 2003.  She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Santa Clara University School of Law.  She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Richard Vlavianos.  The Governor’s appointment allows her to assume the position she was otherwise elected to begin in January 2025.

Judge Gurjit Singh Srai has been a Sole Practitioner since 2010. He was an Associate at Scott Mitchell Law Inc. in 2010.  Judge Srai earned his Juris Doctor degree from the Chapman University School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Robin C. Appel.  Judge Gurjit Singh Srai is the first Sikh American Judge in San Joaquin County.

Presiding Judge Gus Barrera II, had this to say, “We are extremely excited with the appointments of Judge Katy Jacot and Judge Gurjit Srai to the bench.  Both are hardworking, dedicated, and have the temperament necessary to be great judicial officers.  Judge Jacot has been an indispensable part of the court as a commissioner over the past year and a half.  Judge Srai brings a wealth of experience from different disciplines as a private practitioner for many years in San Joaquin County.  These appointments reflect the great diversity in our community.” 

The formal swearing in ceremonies for Judge Katy Jacot and Judge Gurjit S Srai have yet to be scheduled.

After this election, the Court has one judicial vacancy that needs to be filled. In addition, a state Judicial Needs Assessment has found that the San Joaquin County Superior Court is in need of additional judgeships.  

The Governor Appoints Two Judges to the San Joaquin Superior Court BenchDownload

        ###