On January 22, 2025, the United States District Court for the Southern District of California celebrated the transition of Chief Judge from the Honorable Dana M. Sabraw to the Honorable Cynthia Bashant. This meaningful ceremony provided an opportunity to reflect on the District's history and accomplishments while looking forward to its continued service to the community.
Judge Gonzalo P. Curiel delivered an overview of the Southern District's rich history, detailing its creation, esteemed bench, and the challenges overcome by Chief Judges through the years—from increased caseloads to the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the spirit of cooperation and collegiality within the District embodied by its Chief Judges, including Judge Sabraw, whom he thanked for his exemplary leadership.
In his remarks, Judge Sabraw expressed heartfelt gratitude to his friends and colleagues—including those who had recorded video tributes shown earlier in the program—as well as his Chambers staff and family. He closed by emphasizing the importance of an independent judiciary, drawing on famous cases from the past to highlight the role that our courts and community play in upholding our democratic system.
Judge Bashant similarly offered warm thanks to her colleagues, Chambers staff, friends, and family who have supported her throughout her legal career and in assuming this new role. She delighted attendees by sharing anecdotes and photographs from her early days as a young litigator at Baker & McKenzie, where she worked alongside Judge Sabraw, Magistrate Judge Jill Burkhardt, San Diego Superior Court Judge Alana Robinson, and others.
Both the outgoing and incoming Chief Judges expressed deep appreciation for the dedication and camaraderie of the Southern District and highlighted how the bench reflects the diverse community of San Diego.
The Federal Bar Association is proud to have participated in organizing this event and congratulates Judges Sabraw and Bashant on their respective transitions. Special thanks to Dylan M. Aste, Blake Currey, Arnold Dizon, Kristin M. Lahaszow, John Morrill, Kelly A. Reis, and Armilla Staley-Ngomo for their invaluable work behind the scenes to make this program a success.
