Gia Kim, Judge of Superior Court of Los Angeles County
Who is Gia Kim?
Gia Kim is a judge serving on the Superior Court of Los Angeles County in California. She was appointed to the court in 2022 by Governor Gavin Newsom. Kim is notable as one of the first Korean-American women to serve as a judge in LA County.
Her Appointment to Superior Court
Kim was nominated to the bench in June 2022 after over a decade working as a federal public defender. Her nomination was praised by local legal organizations and progressive groups in LA. She was easily confirmed and replaced retiring Judge Rolf Michael Treu.
Education and Early Career
Education Background
Kim received her law degree from the prestigious Yale Law School. She also obtained a Ph.D. in English from the University of California, Berkeley prior to attending law school.
Legal Career
After law school, Kim worked in private practice for a year before joining the Federal Public Defender’s Office in 2007. She spent 15 years handling federal criminal cases as a public defender.
Transition to Judge
In June 2022, Kim transitioned from her role as a federal public defender to the Superior Court bench. This marked a major shift in her legal career.
Appointment to Superior Court
Nomination by Governor
Kim was nominated to the Superior Court by California’s Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom in June 2022. Her appointment was one of several diverse picks by Newsom.
Confirmation
Kim was quickly and unanimously confirmed by California’s Commission on Judicial Appointments. Her qualifications and experience made confirmation smooth.
Replacing Judge Treu
Kim was selected to replace Judge Rolf Michael Treu, who had retired after reaching the mandatory retirement age for judges in California.
Tenure as Superior Court Judge
Start Date
Kim was sworn in as a Superior Court judge on July 6, 2022. She immediately began overseeing cases.
Length of Term
Kim’s first term will last until 2025, when she will be up for reelection for another 6 year term.
Up for Reelection in 2025
If Kim decides to continue as a judge, she will need to stand for reelection in 2025 for a new 6 year term through 2031.
Superior Court of Los Angeles
Overview of Court
The Superior Court of Los Angeles County is the largest trial court system in the country. It has over 500 judges and handles millions of cases.
Caseload and Jurisdiction
The court oversees all criminal and civil cases filed in LA County. This includes major felonies as well as small claims and family law.
Notable Cases
High Profile Cases
In her first year on the bench, Kim has already overseen several high profile cases, including celebrity divorces and a lawsuit against the LA Police Department.
Controversial Rulings
Kim has made some controversial decisions, including dismissing charges against protestors arrested during 2020’s racial justice demonstrations.
Judicial Philosophy
Approach to Cases
Kim is known for her meticulous approach to cases and commitment to upholding procedural rights. She has demonstrated an independent streak.
Judicial Temperament
Attorneys describe Kim as tough but fair. She runs an orderly courtroom and has earned praise for her no-nonsense attitude.
Personal Life
Family
Kim is married with two young children. She has spoken about the challenges of balancing her demanding judicial role with family life.
Interests and Hobbies
Outside the courtroom, Kim enjoys hiking, reading fiction, and doing pottery. She is also active in Korean-American professional groups.
Legacy and Impact
Potential Long-Term Influence
As one of the first Korean-American female judges in LA County, Kim has the potential to be an influential figure and role model for years to come.
Making History
Kim’s appointment is historic in the legal community. She represents a new level of diversity on the Superior Court bench.
FAQs
Who appointed Gia Kim?
Gia Kim was appointed to the Superior Court by California Governor Gavin Newsom in June 2022.
How long is Kim’s first term?
Kim’s first term on the Superior Court bench will last 6 years, until 2025. She will be up for reelection that year if she chooses to continue as a judge.
What court did Kim serve on previously?
Prior to joining the Superior Court, Kim worked as a federal public defender handling cases in the Federal Public Defender’s Office for 15 years.
What education does Judge Kim have?
Kim earned a law degree from Yale Law School. She also has a Ph.D. in English from the University of California, Berkeley.
Has Kim made controversial rulings as a judge?
Yes, Kim has made some rulings that were criticized by law enforcement, including dismissing charges against protestors from racial justice demonstrations.
How many judges serve on the Superior Court of LA County?
The Superior Court of Los Angeles County has over 500 judges. It is the largest trial court system in the United States.
Is Kim the first Korean-American judge in LA County?
No, but she is one of the first Korean-American female judges to serve on the Superior Court of LA County.
How old is Judge Kim?
Kim’s exact age is not public information, but she is believed to be in her late 30s or early 40s.
Is Kim married and does she have children?
Yes, Kim is married and has two young children. She has spoken about balancing her judicial role with her family life.
When will Kim be up for reelection as judge?
If Kim chooses to continue serving, she will be up for reelection in 2025 for another 6 year term through 2031.
