The California Latino Judges Association is dedicated to:
- Promoting equal access to justice for all Californians
- Supporting the professional development of Latino judicial officers
- Advancing the appointment and election of qualified Latino judges at all levels of the judiciary
- Mentoring the next generation of Latino judicial officers and attorneys seeking the bench
- Fostering community and collegiality among our members
- Serving as the voice of the Latino community in California's justice system
Why CLJA Exists
Latinos make up nearly 40% of California's population — the largest ethnic group in the state. But as of December 2025, Latinos hold only 13% of judicial seats across California's courts, up from just 6.3% in 2006. Progress is real — but the gap between California's population and its judiciary remains stark, and the work is far from done.
CLJA exists to close that gap — through advocacy, community, and by working with the Governor's Appointments Office and justice partners to identify and advance qualified Latino candidates for judicial appointment at every level of the branch.
The work is ongoing. Every appointment matters. Every member matters.