Patrick M. Pekin

### Did you know? **If an incumbent judge is the only candidate to file for their office, they are automatically reelected. For this reason, most superior court offices up for election do not appear on the ballot.** California has 58 trial courts, one in each county. Superior courts have trial jurisdiction over all criminal and civil cases. Superior court judges serve six-year terms and are elected by county voters in March of even-numbered years. Vacancies occurring during those terms are filled through appointment by the Governor. The vast majority of superior court judges initially reach the bench via gubernatorial appointment.