About the Judicial Council

By an amendment to article VI of the state Constitution in 1926, the citizens of California established the Judicial Council. The 28-member body (see Members) is responsible for improving the statewide administration of justice in the California courts, the largest court system in the nation.

Under the leadership of the Chief Justice and in accordance with the California Constitution, the Judicial Council:

• Establishes direction and set priorities for the continual improvement of the court system;
• Promulgates rules of court administration, practice, and procedure;
• Sponsors and takes positions on legislation that affects the California judicial system;
• Allocates the judicial branch budget; and
• Responds to legislative mandates.

The work of the Judicial Council is supported by its staff agency, the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). The leader of the AOC, the Administrative Director of the Courts, is appointed by the Chief Justice and serves as the Secretary to the council.

Additional Information

Profile of the Judicial Council (PDF, 3,147 KB)