Judicial Council Announces 2025 Distinguished Service and Aranda Award Recipients
The Judicial Council of California selected three recipients of its 2025 Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes people and organizations for their extraordinary leadership and contributions to the administration of justice in California. The Judicial Council also recognizes recipients of the Aranda Access to Justice Awards.
Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert, Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District, Division Six
Judge Jonathan Conklin, Superior Court of Fresno County
Rebecca Fleming, Court Executive Officer, Superior Court of Santa Clara County
The Aranda Access to Justice Award, co-sponsored by the Judicial Council, the California Judges Association, the California Lawyers Association, and the Commission on Access to Justice, will be awarded to:
Judge Bruce Chan, Superior Court of San Francisco County
Judge Samantha Jessner, Superior Court of Los Angeles County
“We honor this year’s recipients for their exceptional contributions to the state’s judicial branch. Through their dedicated service and commitment, these court leaders have expanded access to justice and inspired us all to continue improving the administration of justice for all Californians.” Chief Justice Patrcia Guererro.
For a list of past recipients, visit Distinguished Service Award recipients 1993–2024. The annual nomination cycle typically begins between May and June.
Note: Current Judicial Council members are not eligible to receive the Distinguished Service Award.