News Release
Press Release : 2026 Judicial leadership and 2026 Judicial Assignments
Monterey County Superior Court Presiding Judge Carrie Panetta is pleased to announce that the Honorable Jennifer O’Keefe has been elected by the bench to serve as Monterey County Superior Court’s next Assistant Presiding Judge, commencing her term January 1, 2026. Judge O’Keefe will serve as Assistant Presiding Judge (APJ) in 2026 and 2027 and as Presiding Judge (PJ) in 2028 and 2029.
Current Assistant Presiding Judge Rafael Vazquez will commence his term as Presiding Judge effective January 1, 2026, and will serve as Presiding Judge (PJ) through 2027.
Press Release: 2026/27 Judicial Leadership Changes