New Santa Clara County Court Presiding Judge Takes Her Seat

GILROY, CA -- The Santa Clara County Superior Court has welcomed a new presiding judge to start the New Year.

Presiding Judge Patricia Lucas began her two-year term on Jan. 1. She previously served as the court's assistant presiding judge.

Additionally, Judge Deborah Ryan has filled the newly vacant position of assistant presiding judge left by Lucas. Ryan will also serve as the supervising judge of the criminal and traffic divisions.

The court's judicial leadership rotates every two years. Lucas is expected to serve as presiding judge until Dec. 31, 2018, when Ryan is expected to fill the position.

Lucas succeeds outgoing Presiding Judge Rise Jones Pichon, who has served since 2015.

Pichon remains on the bench and now presides over the court's probate calendars. She's also expected to continue to serve on the court's executive committee.

Bay City News contributed to this report/Image via Shutterstock