Santa Clara Superior Court Executive Officer Rebecca Fleming Honored with Statewide Distinguished Service Award

SAN JOSÉ, CA (October 14, 2025):  The Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara proudly recognizes Court Executive Officer Rebecca Fleming for receiving the Judicial Council of California’s 2025 Distinguished Service Award, one of the state judiciary’s highest honors.

The Distinguished Service Award honors individuals and organizations for extraordinary leadership and contributions to the administration of justice. This year’s honorees are Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert of the Second Appellate District, Judge Jonathan Conklin of the Fresno Superior Court, and Santa Clara Superior Court Executive Officer Rebecca Fleming.

“Rebecca’s leadership and commitment to innovation have made a lasting impact not only on Santa Clara County, but on courts across California,” said Presiding Judge Julie A. Emede. “Her vision for accessible, efficient justice and her ability to bring people together around that mission are hallmarks of her career.”

Since her appointment as Court Executive Officer in 2017, Fleming has led one of California’s largest and most complex trial courts through significant operational and technological transformation. Under her leadership, the Santa Clara Superior Court has implemented numerous digital access tools that allow the public to view case information, pay fines and fees, and access real-time updates online.  These initiatives have significantly improved transparency and convenience for court users.

In addition to her local impact, Fleming has played a critical statewide role in advancing funding equity and access to justice. As vice-chair of the Trial Court Budget Advisory Committee and co-chair of its Funding Methodology Subcommittee, she has guided efforts to ensure fair and sustainable funding for all 58 superior courts. Fleming has also testified before the California Legislature and championed policies to improve interpreter services, address the court reporter shortage, and modernize data collection statewide.

“Rebecca’s deep understanding of both the operational and human aspects of court leadership has strengthened the entire branch,” said CEO Fleming’s longtime colleague, Deputy CEO Lisa Herrick. “Her work reminds us that efficiency and empathy must go hand in hand in public service.”

CEO Fleming’s focus on community connection has also distinguished her tenure. She has championed the bench and Court in their support of civic education and engagement programs that bring the public closer to the justice system, including student art contests, Power of Democracy outreach, and courthouse tours for youth. Her initiatives have been recognized across the state as models for cultivating public trust and understanding of the courts’ role in democracy.

Through their dedicated service and commitment, these court leaders have expanded access to justice and inspired us all to continue improving the administration of justice for all Californians.

The Santa Clara Superior Court joins the Chief Justice and Judicial Council in congratulating Rebecca Fleming on this well-deserved recognition of her exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to justice.