Elimination of Bias Committee

Mission

Understanding that as human beings we have biases that affect our actions, the Monterey County Superior Court Joint Committee on the Elimination of Bias is committed to working within our legal community to help identify and eliminate actions that prevent us from achieving a fair and impartial court environment. The purpose of this Committee is to assist in maintaining courtrooms free of bias and the appearance of bias through sponsoring educational programs and training, and promoting open communication.

Committee Membership

Committee members shall be selected every 2 years and shall serve 2 year terms. The committee shall be composed of representative members of the court community including judicial officers, lawyers, court administrators, Self Help staff, law students and others representing governmental or community organizations involved in diversity, equity and inclusion. Committee members should be representatives and individuals who interact with the court and reflect the diverse and various needs and viewpoints of court users.

Members whose terms conclude on December 31, 2023:

• Judge Stephanie Hulsey
• Judge Elisabeth Mineta
• Chris Ruhl, Court Executive Officer, Monterey County Superior Court
• Rhonda Combs, Assistant City Attorney, Salinas
• Tom Espinoza, Esq.
• Crystal Gaudette, Esq. and Monterey County Women Lawyers Association Vice President
• Jacqueline Nicora, Esq. and Monterey County Women Lawyers Association President
• Juan Rodriguez, Esq. and Civil Rights Officer for Monterey County

Members whose terms conclude on December 31, 2024:

• Ashley Cameron, Esq.
• Christine Fenech, Esq.
• Laura Franklin, Esq.
• Joy McMurtry, Assistant Public Defender, Monterey County
• Lana Nassoura, Assistant District Attorney, Monterey County
• Cynthia Negrete, Esq. and Monterey County Bar Association President
• Marina Pantchenko, Esq., Deputy County Counsel
• Derrick Pino, Monterey College of Law, Class of 2024