Run for County Court Judge in Santa Cruz County, CA

Election Date: Jun 2, 2026
Filing Deadline:

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Election Details

Office level: county
Length of term: 6 years
Commitment level: Full Time
Affiliation: nonpartisan
Typical salary: N/A
Filing period: N/A - N/A
Positions:
Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge (De la Pena Seat)
Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge (Burdick Seat)
Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge (Marigonda Seat)
Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge (Schmal Seat)
Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge (Guy Seat)
...

Job description

### 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.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for appointment, a person must be a registered voter and a citizen of the of the state of California. The candidate must be a member of the State Bar of California or a judge of a court in California for at least 10 years immediately preceeding selection. The candidate must be also a member in good standing with the California State Bar.

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FAQ

How often is County Court Judge elected?

The position of County Court Judge is typically elected every 6 years.

What does it mean for an election to be nonpartisan?

Nonpartisan elections do not require candidates to declare a party affiliation.

What are the filing requirements to get on the ballot in Santa Cruz County, CA?

Candidates must pay a filing fee of 1% of the first-year salary of the office. In lieu of a filing fee, candidates can submit signatures to qualify. In districts with more than 2,000 registered voters, candidates must submit a petition with three signatures for each dollar of the filing fee, or 7 percent of total registered voters in the district, whichever is less. In districts with less than 2,000 registered voters, the candidate may submit a petition containing three signatures for each dollar of the filing fee, or 14 percent of the total registered voters in the district, whichever is less. Candidates must also file a Candidate Intention Statement. All applicable documents and fees must be filed in the county elections office for which the candidate wishes to represent. Any applicant seeking a judicial appointment must complete and submit an application to the Office of Governor. All applicants are required to submit an application for appointment in electronic form. Applicants must also scan and email a photograph, written materials and an Authorization and Release form to the Office of Governor.

Where do I submit my candidate paperwork?

Submit paperwork to the County Election's office.

Where is the filing office?

701 Ocean Street, Room 310, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

How can I get in touch with the filing office?

You can contact the filing office by calling 831-454-2060.

How do I get started running for County Court Judge?

You can start running for County Court Judge by checking to ensure you meet all filing deadlines and requirements. Next, you can prepare to file for office and start planning your campaign strategy. Get in touch with our team of campaign experts for help with any step of the campaign process!

Is there a primary or runoff election for this office?

The next election for County Court Judge includes a primary, but not a runoff election.

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