The Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara has announced the swearing-in of Hon. Sarah Cook as a new judge. Judge Cook was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom on August 7, 2025.
Judge Cook has over ten years of experience in dependency and child welfare law. Before joining the bench, she worked as Director of Policy and Legal Services at the Dependency Advocacy Center since 2023. Her previous roles include serving as Corridor Managing Attorney from 2017 to 2023 and as a Staff Attorney from 2013 to 2017, where she focused on legal advocacy for children and families.
She received her Juris Doctor degree from Washington University School of Law. The court notes that her background includes policy development, courtroom advocacy, and leadership in legal services with an emphasis on equity, due process, and better outcomes for vulnerable groups.
Judge Cook is filling the position left open by the retirement of Judge L. Michael Clark.
“The Court looks forward to Judge Cook’s service and contributions to the administration of justice in Santa Clara County,” according to the announcement.
