The San Diego Superior Court welcomed Judge Michael S. Groch as the new Presiding Judge, assuming responsibility for the oversight and management of the Court's expansive operations. Judge Groch assumes a role overseeing 154 judicial officers, nearly 1,100 employees, and a budget exceeding $220 million. In a recent statement, he emphasized the principle of being "connected" as the cornerstone of his approach to his term. "Connected is more than a theme,” Judge Groch said. "It underscores the importance of collaboration, communication, and trust throughout the court," as reported by the San Diego Superior Court's official news release.
Judge Groch brings to the table a history steeped in law and justice, with nearly two decades as a San Diego County Deputy District Attorney before being appointed to the San Diego Superior Court in 2010. His expertise is not contained by the bounds of the courtroom; he promises to aggressively push forward operational improvements and has previously overseen the implementation of a fully electronic eWarrant system and an online system to streamline attorney check-ins. With the court's technological landscape evolving, Judge Groch's previous experience directing the Court’s Technology Committee seems to place the gavel in his tech-savvy hands rightly.
His credentials extend beyond county lines; Judge Groch is recognized statewide for his contributions to judicial education and the advancement of technology. His roles have included terms as both Associate Dean and Dean of the B.E. Witkin Judicial College, as well as positions on the Judicial Council's Information and Technology Advisory Committee. According to the San Diego Superior Court, his educational contributions have significantly shaped the curriculum of the CJER Supervising Judge Institute. Notably, Judge Groch's dedication to education in the legal field underscores his long-term commitment to enhancing the judiciary's efficacy and responsiveness.
