Judicial Elections
Your vote decides who sits on the bench. Here's what you need to know.
How Placer County Judicial Elections Work
Nonpartisan Ballot
Superior Court judges run without party labels. Voters evaluate candidates based on qualifications, judicial record, bar ratings, and endorsements — not party affiliation.
6-Year Terms
A winning candidate serves a 6-year term and may seek reelection indefinitely. Voters may also recall a sitting judge at any time through California's recall process.
Who Can Run
Any active California State Bar member with at least ten years of experience may run for Superior Court judge. Residency in Placer County is not required — only California residency.
Gubernatorial Appointments
When a judge retires or vacates mid-term, the Governor appoints a replacement. That appointee stands for election at the next even-year primary — often running unopposed.
Campaign Finance
Judicial candidates must file campaign finance disclosures with the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC). These are public records and searchable at fppc.ca.gov.
Election Calendar
Judicial races appear on the June primary ballot in even-numbered years. A candidate who wins a majority in June avoids a November runoff. Otherwise, the top two advance.
How to Vote in a Judicial Election
- 1 Register to vote at registertovote.ca.gov — deadline is 15 days before the election
- 2 Judicial races appear on the same ballot as other Placer County offices
- 3 Research candidates at Voter's Edge (votersedge.org) before you vote
- 4 Review campaign finance disclosures at fppc.ca.gov
- 5 Check the CJP website for any discipline history on sitting judges
- 6 Cast your ballot by mail or in person — Placer County Elections has full details
Upcoming Elections
Next Placer County Superior Court elections appear on the June primary ballot in even-numbered years. Check the Placer County Elections Office for currently filed candidates and election dates.
Placer County Elections Office →