Justice Shama H. Mesiwala Named Sacramento Valley Chapter of ABOTA's Judge of the Year!

We are proud to announce that Justice Mesiwala has been named our Judge of the Year, in recognition of her exceptional career, leadership, and enduring commitment to justice. We are equally delighted to honor her Judicial Assistant, Jenna Swartzendruber, as our 2026 Clerk of the Year, celebrating her professionalism, dedication, and invaluable support of the court.

A native Californian, Justice Mesiwala has built a remarkable legacy of public service and achievement. After graduating magna cum laude from UC San Diego in just three years and earning her law degree from UC Davis King Hall at the age of 20, she began her career as a federal public defender and appellate advocate. In that role, she argued before California’s highest courts, demonstrating early on the intellect, integrity, and advocacy skills that would define her career.

Her transition to the judiciary marked the beginning of an equally impactful chapter. She served in key legal staff roles before being appointed to the Sacramento County Superior Court, where she presided over a broad range of cases with fairness, efficiency, and compassion. Among her many contributions, she launched Northern California’s first Indian Child Welfare Act courtroom, an initiative reflecting her commitment to equity, access to justice, and community-centered innovation.

In 2023, Justice Mesiwala was unanimously confirmed as an Associate Justice on the California Court of Appeal, earning the highest possible rating of “exceptionally well qualified.” Beyond the bench, she has made lasting contributions to the legal community through teaching appellate advocacy, cofounding the South Asian Bar Association of Sacramento, and actively supporting diversity and inclusion within the profession. Her numerous awards and recognitions speak to both her excellence and her impact.

We applaud Justice Mesiwala for her tireless public service that continues to increase the public’s trust and confidence in the judiciary and our courts.

Jenna Swartzendruber, our Clerk of the Year, exemplifies the highest standards of dedication and professionalism. Her tireless work, attention to detail, and steadfast support have been instrumental in advancing the court’s mission and ensuring the smooth administration of justice. Her partnership with Justice Mesiwala reflects the strength and collaboration that underpin an effective judiciary.

Please join us in congratulating Justice Mesiwala and Jenna Swartzendruber on these well-deserved honors.