Judge John R. Brownlee

  • Judge of the Superior Court of Kern County (California) since 2007, overseeing felony criminal cases.
  • Appointed to the bench in June 2007 by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
  • Re-elected without opposition in 2016 and 2022; current term expires January 8, 2029.
  • Previously served as a Deputy District Attorney in Kern County from 1990 to 2007, rising to Supervising Deputy D.A.
  • Education: B.S. from Northern Arizona University (1985); J.D. from University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law (1990).

Education

John R. Brownlee earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Northern Arizona University in 1985. He went on to obtain his Juris Doctor from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, graduating in 1990.

Career

Early Career in Law: After law school, Brownlee began his legal career in the Kern County District Attorney’s Office in 1990. He served as a deputy district attorney for 17 years, prosecuting a range of criminal cases. Over time, he advanced to the role of Supervising Deputy District Attorney, taking on leadership responsibilities within the D.A.’s office.

Judicial Appointment and Service: In June 2007, John R. Brownlee was appointed as a judge of the Superior Court of California, County of Kern, by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. He filled a trial court vacancy and has since presided over felony criminal proceedings in the court’s Metropolitan Division (Bakersfield). As a judge, Brownlee is known for creating a comfortable courtroom atmosphere for jurors and litigants while efficiently managing his cases. He has occasionally taken breaks from his regular felony trial duties to preside over adoption ceremonies on National Adoption Day – a role he embraces due to his own background as an adoptee.

Judicial Elections

Judge Brownlee has remained on the bench through multiple election cycles. In 2016, he ran unopposed for his seat (Office 4) on the Kern County Superior Court, resulting in automatic re-election. Similarly, in 2022, no challenger filed to run against him; the primary election was canceled and Brownlee was re-elected outright without appearing on the ballot. His current term extends until January 8, 2029.

Community Involvement

Being adopted as an infant himself, Brownlee is particularly passionate about adoption-related events. He volunteers each year to oversee proceedings during National Adoption Day in Kern County. During these events, he often shares his personal story with adoptive families and adoptees, emphasizing that he “hit the jackpot” with his own adoptive parents and hoping each child finds the same loving support. This personal commitment highlights Brownlee’s dedication to children and families in the community beyond his regular judicial duties.