REGISTER TODAY to Vote for the Primary Elections - Commissioner Jesús (Jess) Valencia for Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge
Tue. Jun. 3, 2008
Santa Clara County

Commissioner Jesús (Jess) Valencia for Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge
"Justice denied anywhere diminishes justice everywhere." - Martin Luther King Jr.

Please join us in our campaign to promote and protect the integrity, independence and diversity of our courts. You deserve a judge who has the character, courage and independence to balance the competing rights and interests before the court, follow the law and make the difficult decisions. My record on the bench is clear. I have the proven experience, independence, integrity and work ethic to do the job of being a fair, firm and effective judge.

Learn more about our campaign* at www.valenciaforjudge.com

What is a court commissioner and how does that differ from a judge?
A court commissioner is a person appointed by the court and entrusted with the responsibility and authority to hear and make decisions concerning certain limited legal matters. A commissioner is distinguished from the position of judge in that a commissioner is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the judges and acts as a temporary judge, presiding over assigned calendars and cases as directed, generally with the stipulation of the parties.

Typical cases handled by court commissioners include criminal and traffic arraignments; civil and small claims actions; hearings and trials of infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies; probate, family law and juvenile court proceedings.

On the other hand, a judge has the legal power to act in any case brought before the court. Judges are elected by voters or appointed by the Governor of California to serve on the bench. Judges must run for re-election every six years.

Why are judicial elections important?
Every day judges make decisions about fundamental issues that affect all of us (family life, education, health care, housing, employment, discrimination, civil, rights, public safety, etc.), and these decisions can have a long-lasting impact. It is crucial that our judges make fair decisions based upon open minded and unbiased consideration of the facts and the law in each case. Judges must know the law, be independent, and be free from external political and economic influences. Voting for qualified judges protects the courts for all of us.

How are judicial campaigns different from other campaigns for public office?
Judicial candidates are prohibited from taking a position on matters and issues likely to come before their courts. To do otherwise would create the appearance of bias and partiality in the decision making process. The ultimate result would be to undermine the public's trust in the judiciary's independence and threaten the rule of law.

What criteria should voters consider in electing judges?
In 2003, the American Bar Association adopted eight enduring principles to guide the selection of judges:
• Judges should uphold the rule of law.
• Judges should be independent.
• Judges should be impartial.
• Judges should possess the appropriate temperament and character.
• Judges should possess the appropriate capabilities and credentials.
• Judges and the judiciary should have the confidence of the public.
• The judicial system should be racially diverse and reflective of the society it serves.

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Commissioner Valencia for Judge FPPC#1303844

* No contributions too small; all donations appreciated.There are no maximum contribution limits. Suggested contribution: $100, $250, $500 or other. (Corporate and personal checks accepted-made payable to Jesus Valencia for Judge)