Superior Court Judges Elect Stephen Dunkle as Assistant to Presiding Judge

Santa Barbara’s courthouse just got a familiar new leader at the top. The Superior Court judges have elected Judge Stephen Dunkle as assistant to the presiding judge, a role that puts him at the heart of keeping our local justice system running smoothly. For anyone who’s ever sat through jury duty or followed a case at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, this is the kind of behind-the-scenes move that shapes how efficiently our courts serve the community.

Judge Dunkle isn’t a stranger to the bench—he’s been serving Santa Barbara County for years, and this election reflects the trust his colleagues have in his judgment and leadership. The Santa Barbara Independent first reported the news, and it’s a quiet but important reminder that our local courts are always working to stay organized and accessible. Here’s to steady leadership in the halls of justice.