UC Law SF Alum Julie A. Emede Elected Presiding Judge of Santa Clara County Superior Court

Julie Emede with Eric Geffon. They are pictured next to the American flag and the Seal of California

Presiding Judge Julie A. Emede ’85 and Assistant Presiding Judge Eric S. Geffon started their terms on January 1, 2025.

The Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, has announced the election of Julie A. Emede ’85 as presiding judge for the 2025–2026 term. Emede, previously serving as assistant presiding judge, began her new role on January 1, 2025. She succeeded Beth McGowen. 

Emede, appointed to the bench in 2009, has served in a wide range of assignments, including the civil division, criminal domestic violence court, probate court, and family court. Before her judicial appointment, she practiced family law, handling dissolutions, adoptions, guardianships, and child representation. She has also been active in legal education, teaching at Santa Clara University School of Law and presenting at numerous judicial and continuing legal education programs. 

The presiding judge oversees the administration of the court and ensures effective delivery of justice across divisions, while the assistant presiding judge supports these efforts and assumes leadership duties when needed. Emede is the third consecutive UC Law SF alum to serve as presiding judge of the Santa Clara County Superior Court.