Attorneys Invited to Join the Temporary Judge Program
Attorneys Invited To Join The Temporary Judge Program
The Superior Court Of California, County Of San Bernardino, Invites Attorneys to Join the Temporary Judge Program
Temporary judges play a key role in our judicial system. Qualified attorneys can preside over cases such as Small Claims, Traffic, Family Law, and Probate. This program is available at courthouses throughout the county, including locations in San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, Victorville, Barstow, and Joshua Tree.
Role and Qualifications
Applicants are carefully reviewed to ensure they meet the qualifications and have the character and experience to serve effectively. The Court provides training and support as required by the California Rules of Court.
Many participants have shared how their service has deepened their understanding of the judicial system, increased their appreciation for the role of judges, and enhanced their empathy for the public. Volunteers also gain first-hand experience with the challenges facing the court system.
Temporary judges are appointed and serve at the discretion of the Presiding Judge. Appointment or service as a temporary judge does not create an employment relationship with the Court.
Application Process
Applications are accepted year round. Submit an Application, with the required training certificates (Bench Conduct, Judicial Ethics, and Substantive Area of Law) using one of the following methods:
- Mail:
Temporary Judge Administrator
247 W. Third Street, 11th Floor
San Bernardino, CA 92415 - Email: TempJudge@sb-court.org
- Fax: 909-708-8754
Qualifications
Applicants must:
- Be in good standing with the California State Bar with no pending disciplinary actions.
- Have no felony convictions.
- Have at least 10 years of practice experience (or 5 years with approval from the Presiding Judge).
- Successfully pass a background check.
Education and Training Requirements
Temporary judges must complete the following training as outlined in California Rules of Court, rules 2.812 and 2.813:
- Bench Conduct and Demeanor: 3 hours (offered as needed).
- Judicial Ethics: 3 hours (available online here).
- Substantive Area of Law: At least 3 hours in a specific field, such as Family Law or Small Claims (available online here).
All required training provides MCLE credit.
Training Schedule
Upcoming training courses:
- Bench Conduct: December 11, 1:00-4:00PM | SBJC 140/144
- Probate Course: Date TBD
- Civil Harassment Course: Date TBD
Registration: TempJudge@sb-court.org
Note: Courses from other Superior Courts in California can also meet the training requirements.
Renewal Process
Eligibility to serve as a Temporary Judge is valid for three years. Six months before the end of this period, participants must submit a Renewal Application and updated training certificates.
Complaint Procedure
To file a complaint about a Temporary Judge, please complete this complaint form.
Resource and Governing Rules
California Rules of Court Governing Temporary Judges
- http://www.courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index.cfm?title=two Rules 2.810- 2.819 and Rules 2.830- 2.835
- http://www.courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index.cfm?title=ten Rules 10.740-10.746
Financial Disclosure
Temporary judges who serve 30 or more days in a calendar year must file a Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) with the Clerk of the Court, as required by the California Fair Political Practices Act. Temporary judges are responsible for tracking their service days.
Form 700 may be found online here.