What does an Orange County Superior Court judge do?

Superior Court judges oversee trials across all of Orange County. There are more than 100 of them across the court system. These trials cover everything having to do with state and local laws, including family law (such as child custody and divorces), contract disputes, thefts, felony murder, probate (distributing a person’s possessions after they die) and small claims.

A judge’s job is to act as court referee:

• making sure all sides are abiding by the proper rules
• hearing arguments
• handing down rulings based on the evidence presented and their interpretation of the law

If the law is very clear on a given issue, a judge has to stick to it regardless of how they personally feel. In other cases, laws may be ambiguous, and that’s when a judge has to issue their own interpretation of the law. Judges also have a fair amount of discretion when it comes to handing down penalties, such as the length of a sentence for a criminal conviction or the payment sum for a civil case. That’s where it starts to really matter who is in the seat.

Superior Court judges serve six-year terms, but they don’t always have to face reelection when that time is up. They’ll only appear on your ballot if someone challenges their seat at the end of their term. Judges who go unchallenged automatically get reelected into their next term and never appear on the ballot at all.

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You might recognize their work from …

Your traffic ticket dispute. Or your child custody case. Or that time you served on a jury. If you’ve never had to interact with the court system before, you’ve definitely heard of a case the Orange County Superior Court has handled: Consider the twisty turny story of John Meehan, which inspired the podcast and TV series Dirty John.

What should I consider in a candidate?

Evaluating judicial candidates is notoriously hard. There can be dozens of them in a given election, and since many candidates are wary of politicizing judgeships, they don’t spend a lot of money on campaign advertising, which makes it hard to find out who they are or what they stand for. Plus, these are nonpartisan seats, so you don’t have the option of just voting for candidates who identify as a member of the party with whom you’re registered.

This is really not an easy task for the average voter, but there are a few pieces of information you can look at to help with your decision.

Here are some tips based on advice we previously received from Judge Stuart Rice, an L.A. Superior Court judge and a past president of the California Judges Association (note: he is not up for reelection):

Look at the Bar Association’s ratings. Usually, the O.C. Bar Association (OCBA) undertakes a lengthy evaluation process for each judicial candidate during every election. This year, OCBA officials told us those rating should be out midweek (week of Feb. 12) and we will add them once they post.

Check out endorsements. These are nonpartisan seats, but you’ll still see endorsements from newspapers, politicians and issue-based organizations, just like any political contest. If there’s an organization you trust, their endorsement might tip the scales for you.

Consider candidates’ experience. The only requirement for being a judge is to be authorized to practice law in California (usually by passing the bar exam), or to have already served as a judge for 10 years in California. That means you might find a wide range of legal experience among candidates. If they were a judge before, or have significant trial experience, that’s a big clue as to how prepared they may be for the job on day one. Having a history as a prosecutor or defense attorney can also tell you they’ve had a lot of experience in court, and give you an idea of their potential approach to criminal justice issues.

Here are some common job titles you may see on the ballot:

• Superior Court commissioner: Someone hired by court judges to do lower-level judicial work, such as traffic violation hearings or small claims. “Once chosen as a commissioner, you are already doing the job as a judge,” said Judge Rice (who himself started his career as a Superior Court commissioner).
• Deputy district attorney: A prosecutor who works for the county district attorney’s office, representing the government in felony and misdemeanor cases.
• Deputy county counsel: An attorney who works for the county counsel’s office, giving legal advice to different departments and representing the county in various litigation issues.
• Public defender: A defense attorney employed by the government to represent defendants accused of crimes who can’t afford private lawyers.
• City attorney: An attorney who handles lawsuits on behalf of a city government. In places like L.A., deputy city attorneys also act as prosecutors for misdemeanors.
• attorney, attorney at law, counselor at law, or lawyer: These are general titles used to describe anyone authorized to practice law, whether they’re a law professor, private defense attorney, in-house counsel at a company, or someone who’s passed the bar exam but isn’t actually working as a lawyer. You’ll likely have to dig a bit more to find out the candidate’s actual work experience.

Fun fact: Until recently, judicial candidates would frequently use their job titles on the ballot as a campaign marketing tool. Candidates would list themselves as “violent crimes prosecutor,” “child molestation prosecutor,” or “domestic violence attorney” to catch voters’ eye — and the tactic largely worked. A reform bill passed in 2017 put an end to that practice, so now you see much more neutral titles like the ones above. (That doesn’t necessarily stop candidates from finding other ways to finesse their appearance on the ballot — one legally changed his first name to “Judge” in the 2020 elections, despite not being an actual sitting judge.)

Look at a candidate’s website. If a candidate doesn’t even bother having a website or online presence where you can learn more about them, that’s a signal they may not be running a serious campaign, Judge Rice said. Campaign websites can also give you more detailed information about a candidate’s background, mission and experience.

Why do we vote for judges?

In short, because we have for a long time and because proposals to stop electing judges haven’t succeeded.

If you’re not totally comfortable with the idea of electing judges, you’re not alone. Lots of people have questioned whether it’s a good idea to elect our judiciary — does it cause judges to worry more about being popular instead of making the right decisions in cases? Some critics also point to something that happened back in 2006 across the county line in L.A. when a well-respected sitting judge who had served on the court for over 20 years unexpectedly lost her seat to a bagel shop owner with much less legal experience who spent way more money on campaign advertising.

More reading

About our guide

• Some candidates did not have a campaign website and/or list of endorsements available online at the time of publication. We have reached out to these candidates and will update this guide as candidate information becomes available.

The Candidates

With all the above in mind, here is our judges guide. It includes the six candidates vying for three seats. Each profile has the candidate’s job, campaign website, and a link to their full list of endorsements (when available). Again, we will add OCBA ratings once they post.

It’s worth noting that of 36 judge seats up for election in Orange County, just three are competitive.

Office No. 3

Dan Jacobson
attorney

Full candidate statement:

I’ve practiced law for 35 years. During much of that time I also taught law. Throughout my career, I’ve gained the key to understanding the law. That key is – Wisdom.

On November 12, 2019, Congressman Lou Correa gave a speech on the Floor of the House of Representatives “Honoring Legendary Orange County attorney Dan Jacobson.” Congressman Correa said, “Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dan Jacobson, a prominent attorney in Orange County [and] longtime defender of the voiceless.”

In the early 1980s I was homeless for a brief time. When down, I got up and fought back against my circumstances. And I ended up a successful lawyer, being praised on the Floor of the House. Through it all I gained, and continue to pursue, knowledge and experience, which mixed together produce – Wisdom.

I understand crime victims – I was one, staring down the barrel of a robber’s pistol. I’ve represented people from all walks of life. For five years I volunteered as a Judge Pro Tem at the Santa Ana courthouse dispensing justice with thoughtfulness, toughness, and – Wisdom.

I’m married to my lifelong best friend, Lyly. I’ve led Boards of Directors of non-profits as varied as the Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy and the Brodie Dance Company.

I’m serving my 2nd term as Commissioner on the California Accountancy Board. I was appointed to that seat by Speaker of the Assembly Emeritus Anthony Rendon. In that position, I use – Wisdom.

I was recognized by preeminent Civil Rights Leader John Lewis when Congressman Lewis sent me his book, The March. Congressman Lewis’ inscription reads, “To Dan Jacobson, Thank you for all of your great work.” Being recognized by John Lewis, demonstrates my – Wisdom.

In the early 2000s Congressman John Garamendi, then California’s Insurance Commissioner, appointed me as a Governor of the California Insurance Guarantee Association. Congressman Garamendi saw in me – Wisdom.

I’ve penned more than 40 scholarly articles in leading legal journals on topics ranging from Indemnity to Grandparents’ Visitation Rights. Please see those at www.https://jacobsonforjudge.com/articles/.

On November 9, 2019 the State Senate recognized me with a certificate issued in my honor. Senator Tom Umberg, Chair of the State Senate’s Judicial Committee, wrote that I have “passion for civic and legal affairs.” That passion is fueled by – Wisdom.

Vote for wisdom; Vote for justice; Vote for Jacobson for judge!

Jason Baez
Deputy District attorney, County Of Orange

Full candidate statement:

A successful 20-year career in the District attorney’s office dedicated to public safety and victims’ rights has earned me bipartisan endorsements from District attorney Todd Spitzer, Sheriff Don Barnes, dozens of Superior Court Judges, Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs, Orange County Coalition of Police and Sheriffs, Association of Orange County Deputy District Attorneys, and Orange County’s elected leaders.

I have been honored to receive the North Orange County Bar Association attorney of the Year award, and awards from victim’s rights groups and MADD. I am endorsed by Orange County Labor Federation, and Orange County Employees Association.

As a Deputy District attorney, I protect the people of Orange County by prosecuting violent criminals and getting justice for victims of murder, gang violence, robbery, carjacking, vehicular homicide, and residential burglary. I currently supervise the Gangs, Narcotics Enforcement Team, and Burglary Crews units.

I am running for Orange County Superior Court Judge with the utmost respect for the responsibility, integrity, fairness, and compassion that this job requires. I will follow the law and treat every person who enters the courtroom with dignity and respect at all times.

I humbly ask for your vote. Experience. Integrity. Fairness. www.baezforjudge.com

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Office No. 16

Richard Zimmer
Deputy District attorney, County Of Orange

Full candidate statement:

I am proud to be endorsed by leadership across Orange County including Sheriff Don Barnes, District attorney Todd Spitzer, police, prosecutors, victims’ rights advocates, elected officials, dozens of judges, police associations, and the Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs representing thousands of peace officers.

For 17-years I have dedicated my career to protecting the people of Orange County. I have prosecuted the most serious crimes including child molestation, rape, armed robbery, gang crimes, and attempted murder, while ensuring our justice system supported and protected crime survivors.

As a supervising Deputy District attorney, I understand the impacts that violent crime, substance abuse, and mental illness have on individuals, their families, and our community. I am a married father of two children and understand the importance of safeguarding our neighborhoods.

With my extensive frontline legal experience, I am prepared to serve as Superior Court Judge from day one. I will follow the law and make sure that criminals are justly punished while treating everyone with dignity, understanding, and respect.

I ask that you join Orange County police, prosecutors, victims’ rights advocates, and judges in supporting my election for Superior Court Judge.

I respectfully ask for your vote. Knowledgeable. Honorable. Experienced. www.Zimmer4Judge.com

Binh Dang
Deputy Public Defender, County Of Los Angeles

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Office No. 35

Whitney Bokosky
Deputy District attorney, County Of Orange

Full candidate statement:

For 17 years, I have been honored to serve and protect the Orange County community by prosecuting child molesters, rapists, drunk drivers, and murderers. I worked closely with law enforcement and survivors in conducting 89 jury trials and put the most dangerous criminals behind bars.

I am a tough but fair prosecutor. I take seriously the ethical responsibility of deciding when to pursue a case.

As your Superior Court Judge, I will uphold the law, protect the public, and give respect to every person that enters the courtroom.

My trial experience and character have earned me endorsements from respected and bipartisan community leaders including Sheriff Don Barnes, Orange County District attorney Todd Spitzer, Superior Court Judges, Veterans Alliance of Orange County, Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs, Deputy District Attorneys, Orange County Labor Federation, Court Employees, Orange County Coalition of Police and Sheriffs, defense and consumer attorneys, and California’s largest law enforcement organization.

I was born and raised in Orange County. I attended Irvine High School, University of California, Irvine and Chapman University School of Law. My husband is a business owner. We are proud parents to children attending local schools.

I would be honored to earn your vote. Bokosky4Judge.com

Daniel J. Kern
attorney At Law

Website: danieljkernforjudge.org
Endorsements: (not listed)
OCBA Rating: Coming soon
Candidate statement (none listed)

About this article

• Gina Pollack compiled the Orange County specific information. Brianna Lee and Caitlin Hernández researched overall issues related to the election of judges, as well as tips on how to make an informed vote.

What questions do you have about the March 5 primary election?

Whether it’s about how to interpret the results or track your ballot, we’re here to help you understand the 2024 primary election on March 5.

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More Voter Guides

• Orange County Board of Supervisors: The winners of Districts 1 and 3 will join a five-member board that oversees a county of about 3 million residents with an annual budget of about $9 billion.
• Orange County Superior Court judges: There are three competitive races for the bench.

Head to LAist’s OC Voter Game Plan for guides to the rest of your ballot including:

• Measure D: Evaluating the initiative that asks Irvine voters to expand the city council and redistribute its powers.
• Huntington Beach Measures 1, 2 and 3: A closer look at a trio of measures aiming to reshape Surf City.
• Orange County State Assembly*: Meet the candidates vying for these nine seats
• Orange County State Senate*: A look at the key races on the ballot
• Prop. 1: Here’s a closer look at the proposal at the center of a debate over how to best help people struggling with mental health, drug and alcohol issues.
• U.S. Congress: Coming soon*
• U.S. Senate: Who will replace the late Dianne Feinstein?

*Produced in partnership with CalMatters

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