Elimination of bias in Peremptory Challenges, from Batson & Wheeler to CCP 231.7

Presented by Hon. Matthew Guerrero, San Luis Obispo Superior Court

May 2, 2024, 12:00 p.m.

Santa Maria Inn (Hancock Room)

This event will be in-person only.

Judge Guerrero will present the evolution of the judicial and legislative attempts to eliminate bias during jury selection.  This will include analysis of the current state of the law and the application of C.C.P. 231.7 in jury selection and is intended to identify recognized bias in jury selection. The current state of the law and a brief summary of the cases shall be included.

Judge Guerrero was appointed by Governor Brown to the San Luis Superior Court in 2017.  He spent his first 3 years in a criminal trial court overseeing misdemeanor and felony cases.  From 2021-2023 Judge Guerrero presided over the family court in Paso Robles.  In 2024, he returned to San Luis Obispo and is again sitting in a criminal trial court.  He has presided over 200 trials, including both court trials and jury trials.  Prior to being appointed, he was a contract public defender for San Luis Obispo County and litigated numerous felony and misdemeanor trials.  Prior to appointment, Judge Guerrero was active with California Attorneys for Criminal Justice (CACJ), was a small business owner,  and an elected official.  Most importantly, he is married to his wife of 20 years, Cynthia,  with whom he shares two children.  Judge Guerrero continues to serve the legal community by speaking at MCLE events on topics that include criminal law, family law,  and trial advocacy, and by volunteering on the Judicial College Steering Committee as well as serving as a seminar leader for new bench officers. 

1 hour MCLE Specialty Credit in Elimination of Bias

Register now with your menu selection:

Chicken Croissant Sandwich; Deli Trio Sandwich; Coastal Green Salad

$35 Members, Staff, Judiciary, Law Students; $50 Non-members