Joanne Motoike

Nonpartisan · Incumbent

On the ballot · 2026

State judiciary — California

Key dates

Voters decide whether Joanne Motoike keeps the seat

Appointed: Gov. Gavin Newsom (Democratic), 2026
Before this court: Associate Justice, Court of Appeal, Fourth District, Division Three · 2022–2026
Judge, Orange County Superior Court · 2013–2022
Senior Deputy Public Defender, Orange County Public Defender’s Office · 2008–2013
Trial Attorney, United Nations International Criminal Tribunal · 2006–2008
Deputy Public Defender, Orange County Public Defender’s Office · 1994–2006
Recent opinions: Szewczyk v. Orange County Employees Retirement System (opens in a new tab)
Aug 14, 2026 ·
Held a type of overtime pay must count in two retirees’ compensation earnable calculation.
Rogers v. City of Redlands (opens in a new tab)
Jun 4, 2025 ·
Upheld a statutory violation ruling and a ruling limiting refunds to those who paid under protest.
Mendez v. Superior Court (opens in a new tab)
Dec 23, 2024 ·
Held misdemeanor-only competency procedures apply only when a defendant faces only misdemeanors.
Sources: Governor Newsom announces judicial appointments 2.19.2026 (opens in a new tab)
Joanne Motoike | Court of Appeal bio (opens in a new tab)