Los Angeles County Superior Court elects new leadership

The Los Angeles County Superior Court elected Judge Sergio C. Tapia II as presiding judge and Judge Ricardo Ocampo as assistant presiding judge for the 2025-26 term.

Tapia will be the first presiding judge of Latino heritage elected by all judges of the consolidated Superior Court since unification 2000. Ocampo is the first Asian American to serve as assistant presiding judge in the court's history.

"I am humbled and deeply grateful to have been elected by my judicial colleagues as the next Presiding Judge of the largest trial court in the nation," Tapia stated. "I am especially eager to build upon the solid foundation established by Presiding Judge Samantha P. Jessner, whom I've served beside with honor since 2023.

"Presiding Judge Jessner has exemplified principled, courageous and empathetic leadership throughout her tenure, redefining the principles of judicial leadership and inspiring us all. I am committed to building on her legacy and ensuring that our Court remains a model of innovation and excellence for trial courts nationwide."

The court's new leadership is set to take office on Jan. 1. Jessner's two-year tenure ends this year.

Ocampo, currently the supervising judge of the criminal division, said, "I am deeply honored to have been chosen by my colleagues as the court's next assistant presiding judge," he said.

The Los Angeles County Superior Court, with nearly 500 judges, is the largest state trial court in the nation.

Both judges bring extensive experience to their new roles. Tapia, appointed to the bench in 2013, has held various leadership positions within the court and served on several committees. His background includes work with the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles and the Public Defender's Office.

Ocampo, appointed in 2008, has nearly three decades of experience in the Los Angeles County legal system. His career includes service as a deputy district attorney and leadership roles within the court system.