Advocacy in the Judicial Selection Process
A significant goal for CWL is the advancement of historically underrepresented groups – women and minorities – onto California’s bench. To this end, CWL both evaluates judicial candidates and presents seminars across the state that demystify the judicial applications process.
Judicial Evaluations
The CWL evaluation process is uniquely thorough and CWL evaluations are well-respected by both California's Commission on Judicial Nominees Evaluation (the "JNE Commission") and the Judicial Appointments Unit of the Governor's Office.
CWL's "So, You Want to Be a Judge" Seminar
To further its goal of broadening the pool of judicial applicants, CWL presents its hallmark semi-annual "So, You Want to Be a Judge" seminar in different locations throughout the state. The seminar demystifies the judicial application process and seeks to increase participants’ chances of appointment. The Judicial Appointments Secretary attends the program, as do dozens of judges. CWL encourages all judicial applicants to attend this seminar for invaluable insights into the JNE Commission process.
How to apply for a CWL Judicial Evaluation
An applicant should contact the CWL office for more information on the judicial evaluation process. The request may be made by phone, by mail, by fax, or by e-mail. The request should include the applicant’s name, address, and position applied for (i.e., superior or appellate court). CWL’s address is 650 Howe Avenue, Suite 1050, Sacramento, CA 95825, phone (916) 646-3114, fax (916) 646-6469, e-mail info@cwl.org.
CWL will respond with a packet of materials, which the applicant should complete, and return to the CWL office. The applicant should also forward the CWL office the following items: (1) mailing labels containing the names and addresses of at least fifty professional references including those of judges, opposing counsel, and other professionals identified in the application to the governor's office, (2) a writing sample, (3) a current résumé, and (4) a check in the amount of $100.00. The packet of materials provides additional detailed instructions.
Once CWL receives the applicant’s completed packet, the evaluation will be assigned to a CWL board member to complete the evaluation process, which will include a personal or telephone interview with the applicant. Upon completion of the evaluation, the CWL board member will present findings to the full CWL Board of Governors so that an evaluation discussion may be made and a rating (Exceptionally Well Qualified, Well Qualified, Qualified, Not Qualified or Decline to Rate) assigned. Thereafter, CWL will send a letter to the Governor’s office containing CWL’s evaluation.
If you are interested in joining the Judicial Evaluations Committee or having the "So, You Want to Be a Judge" seminar presented in your area, please contact the CWL Administrator, Renee Calta at info@cwl.org.
