Leadership Perspectives: Judge Steven Jahr on 100 Years of the Judicial Council

In celebration of the council's 100th anniversary, former California Chief Justices and Judicial Council Administrative Directors offered their perspectives on the importance of the council and its mission to enhance access to justice. Their perspectives help show how the council evolved into a critical institution that promotes consistency across courts, elevates service to the public, and enhances the experience of those who rely on our justice system.

Judge Steven Jahr, Former Judicial Council Administrative Director (Ret.)
Judge Steven Jahr served for more than 20 years on the Shasta County bench before coming out of retirement to serve as the council's administrative director from 2012-2014. In a recent interview, he answered questions about his career-long efforts to improve the California court system, including his time as a council member and as the council's administrative director.

"My experience both as a council member from the late 90s and serving as Administrative Director between 2012 and 2014 is that there is a decidedly apolitical culture that the council is invested in," said Judge Jahr. "Openness and operational transparency are valued. It has always been composed of people who are sensitive to the highest ethical standards and have a great sense of collegiality."

Judge Jahr expanded on the council's culture, calling it one "of reform-mindedness" and "less inclined to adhere to old ways for their own sake or to be preoccupied with matters of turf and territory."

See the full interview with Judge Jahr on the Celebrating 100 Years of the Judicial Council of California website.

More interviews in this leadership perspectives series will be posted in the next few months.

History, Timeline, Videos, and Exhibit Further Highlight Impact of Judicial Council
Complementing the judicial leader perspectives, additional resources on the 100th anniversary website help explain the council's impact on California's judicial branch and the residents who rely on the justice system:

The Judicial Council of California: The First 100 Years (1926-2026) : Narrative history of the council, which has helped to solidify the judicial branch and improve court services for the public.

100 Milestones for 100 Years : Interactive timeline highlights some of the actions taken or supported by the Judicial Council to improve the court system and enhance the administration of justice.

Video: How the Judicial Council Is Transforming the Court Experience : Showcases just a few of the council's transformative initiatives, including self-help services; language access support; remote access; and building modern and secure new courthouses.

Council Leadership : Bios of previous Chief Justices and council Administrative Directors, as well as a list of Judicial Council members who have served from 1926 to 2026.

Videos: Public Servants of California's Judicial Branch < /a>: Videos highlight some of California's dedicated public servants, who speak about why they choose to serve in the judicial branch and with the council.

100th Anniversary Archive Exhibit : Historical photos, publications, and other memorabilia from the council that highlight key milestones and achievements in expanding access to justice over the past century.