California, USA:  Monika Saini Donabed was officially appointed as a judge for Merced County, achieving a historic milestone as the first Indian, South Asian, and Asian female to hold this position in the region.

The Superior Court of California, County of Merced, announced her appointment in a statement released on January 7. The statement read, “The Superior Court warmly welcomes Judge Donabed to the bench. Her expertise, professionalism, and dedication will serve as invaluable assets to the court and the people of Merced County.”

Judge Donabed, a Livingston native born to Indian immigrant parents, pursued her Juris Doctor at the University of California, Davis School of Law. Her legal career began in Merced County, where she served as a deputy district attorney from 2009 to 2014. She later took on a similar role in Stanislaus County between 2014 and 2016 before returning to Merced Superior Court as a staff attorney III. She held that position until her recent judicial appointment.

Her path to the bench was solidified during the March 2024 primary election, where she won decisively with 63.32% of the vote, reflecting strong community support. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Hoffmeister Center in Merced, officiated by Judge Brian McCabe.

The City of Merced celebrated her achievement on Instagram, posting, “Merced welcomes Monika S. Donabed as Superior Court Judge. She was officially sworn in by Judge Brian McCabe on January 3rd.” The ceremony was attended by Mayor Matt Serratto and City Council Members Darin DuPont, Mike Harris, and Sarah Boyle.

Judge Donabed's historic appointment is being celebrated as a beacon of inspiration for future generations in Merced County.