Media Release
Pathways to the Bench – Learn How Judges Get Appointed
The Superior Court of California, County of Stanislaus, in collaboration with the Stanislaus County Unity Bar Association, Stanislaus State’s College of the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, the Office of the Governor of the State of California, and the Stan State Court Observer Program, proudly presents Pathways to the Bench—an event designed to inform and inspire both current and future members of the legal profession.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Stanislaus State University Student Center
Admission: Free (Registration Required)
Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pathways-to-the-bench-tickets-1260032534229?aff=oddtdtcreator
This special evening will feature remarks by Luis Céspedes, Judicial Appointments Secretary to Governor Gavin Newsom. Secretary Céspedes will share valuable insights into the judicial appointments process and the importance of broad representation in California’s courts.
The event will include a panel discussion with judicial officers from the Stanislaus County Superior Court. Judge Ricardo Cordova (Ret.) will serve as moderator. Panelists will include Judge David Hood, Judge Saul Garcia, Judge Marcus Mumford, Judge Sweena Pannu, and Judge Maria Ramos Ratliff, who will share their personal journeys to the bench and take questions from attendees.
“This is a unique opportunity for aspiring judges and legal professionals to gain firsthand knowledge from those who have successfully navigated the path to the judiciary,” said Presiding Judge Sonny Sandhu. “We are honored to welcome Secretary Céspedes and to support this important community engagement.”
About Luis Céspedes
Luis Céspedes has devoted his career to public service and the advancement of diversity in the legal profession. As Judicial Appointments Secretary, he oversees the nomination process for judges across the state and works to ensure the bench reflects the full diversity of California. His commitment to equity and fairness has made a lasting impact on the state’s judicial system.