Deputy DA Appointed to Superior Court Bench

Governor Jerry Brown announced Thursday morning the appointment of Deputy District Attorney James E. Simmons to the Superior Court bench to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge David M. Szumowski. [TWEET THIS]

Simmons has served as a Deputy DA in our office since 2006 working in the North County Branch, Juvenile Division, Superior Court Division and most recently in the Gangs Division where he distinguished himself as a strong trial attorney handling some of the most difficult cases.  Prior to joining our office, James served as a Deputy City Attorney at the San Diego City Attorney’s Office from 2005 to 2006.

“While we will miss his legal expertise, his commitment to justice and his exceptional professionalism, our office’s loss is absolutely a gain for the bench in San Diego County,” said District Attorney Summer Stephan.

Simmons also volunteered his time to Project LEAD, mentoring 5th graders to help them develop leadership skills and make good choices when faced with peer pressure.

Simmons earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Golden Gate University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley. [TWEET THIS]