Judge Kerri M. Gilmore

Key Facts

  • Appointed by: Governor Jerry Brown on June 16, 2018
  • Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.), San Joaquin College of Law, 1998
  • Bar Admission: California State Bar, 1999
  • Courtroom Assignment: Department 9 – Family Law (Visalia Division)
  • Primary Case Types: Family Law – custody, support, DVROs, DCSS, divorce
  • Prior Legal Experience: Deputy District Attorney (1999–2016); Assistant District Attorney (2016–2018)
  • Political Affiliation: Registered Democrat at time of appointment

Biography

Judge Kerri M. Gilmore has served on the Tulare County Superior Court bench since June 2018. Based in Department 9 at the Visalia Courthouse, she presides over a family law calendar. Her judicial demeanor is noted for fairness, preparation, and clarity in rulings.

Education

Gilmore earned her Juris Doctor from San Joaquin College of Law in 1998 and was admitted to the California Bar the following year. Details of her undergraduate education are not publicly available, though she is a native of Visalia and attended local schools.

Professional Background

  • Deputy District Attorney (1999–2016): Gilmore prosecuted a wide range of criminal cases for Tulare County over 17 years, including felonies and domestic violence matters.
  • Assistant District Attorney (2016–2018): Promoted to a leadership role within the District Attorney’s Office, she managed felony trial teams and helped train newer prosecutors.

Judicial Appointment

Gilmore was appointed to the Tulare County Superior Court by Governor Jerry Brown on June 16, 2018. She filled a vacancy on the bench and was assigned to the Family Law Division upon her appointment. She has served without disciplinary issue or electoral opposition since taking office.

Current Judicial Assignment

  • Courtroom: Department 9 (Visalia Division)
  • Calendar: Family law cases involving parties with last names P–Z in North Tulare County
  • Case Types: Divorce, child custody, child and spousal support, restraining orders, and DCSS matters

Judicial Philosophy and Reputation

Judge Gilmore is regarded as a calm and thoughtful jurist who ensures parties are heard. Attorneys describe her as professional, efficient, and fair. She has developed a reputation for maintaining control of the courtroom while managing complex and emotionally charged family disputes.

Community Involvement

While maintaining a low public profile, Gilmore has supported mentoring initiatives for young attorneys and has spoken at local legal events. She is part of a long-standing legal family in Tulare County, with deep roots in the region’s justice system.