George A. Turner Jr. represents a refreshing new chapter in the Los Angeles judicial system. His journey from growing up in Inglewood to becoming a Superior Court Judge is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his community. For many, the legal system can feel distant and unapproachable, but figures like George A. Turner Jr. work tirelessly to bridge that gap, ensuring that justice is not just a concept, but a reality for everyone.
This article dives deep into the life, career, and philosophy of George A. Turner Jr., exploring how his background has shaped his approach to law and why his recent election victory marks a significant moment for Los Angeles County.
The Early Life and Roots of George A. Turner Jr.
Understanding the man behind the robe requires looking at where he came from. George A. Turner Jr. is not an outsider looking in; he is a product of the very communities he serves. Born and raised in Inglewood, California, he has always maintained a strong connection to his roots.
Deep Community Ties in Inglewood
Inglewood is more than just a birthplace for George A. Turner Jr.; it is the foundation of his identity. Growing up in this vibrant yet complex city provided him with a firsthand view of the challenges many families face. He attended public schools his entire life, culminating in his graduation as valedictorian from Morningside High School. This academic excellence early in life set the stage for a future defined by high achievement and public service.
Academic Excellence at UCLA
After high school, George A. Turner Jr. continued his education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Here, he didn’t just attend; he excelled. He graduated Summa Cum Laude and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, earning his bachelor’s degree in 2004. He stayed at UCLA for law school, where he focused his studies on Critical Race Studies. This specific academic focus gave him the intellectual tools to understand how race and law intersect, a perspective that would prove invaluable in his later career as a public defender.
A Career Dedicated to Public Defense
Before ascending to the bench, George A. Turner Jr spent nearly two decades in the trenches of the legal system. Unlike many judges who come from prosecutorial backgrounds, his experience is rooted in defense.
The Role of a Deputy Public Defender
For over 15 years, George A. Turner Jr. served as a Deputy Public Defender for Los Angeles County. He represented clients in over 50 trials, handling cases ranging from complex identity fraud to serious charges like murder.
His work took him to various courthouses, including the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center, the Metropolitan Court, and the Inglewood Court. This wide-ranging experience gave George A. Turner Jr. a comprehensive view of how the justice system operates across different jurisdictions within the county.
Advocating for the Vulnerable
A significant portion of his career was dedicated to protecting the rights of children as a juvenile attorney. Furthermore, he led a specialized unit dedicated to clearing the criminal records of unhoused neighbors. This work highlights a core belief held by George A. Turner Jr.: that legal hurdles should not prevent people from rebuilding their lives. By helping clear records, he opened doors for employment and housing, directly combating the cycle of poverty and incarceration.
George A. Turner Jr. and the 2024 Election
The 2024 election cycle was a pivotal moment for George A. Turner Jr. and for Los Angeles voters who were looking for change.
The Campaign for Superior Court Judge
Running for Office No. 39 of the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, George A. Turner Jr. faced a competitive field. In the primary election held on March 5, 2024, he secured the top spot with 32.8% of the vote, advancing to a runoff against Steve Napolitano.
His campaign resonated with voters because it offered a clear alternative to the status quo. He ran as part of the “Defenders of Justice” slate, a group of candidates focused on bringing a public defender’s perspective to the bench. This perspective emphasizes rehabilitation, fairness, and a nuanced understanding of the socio-economic factors that drive crime.
Victory in November
On November 5, 2024, the people of Los Angeles made their voices heard. George A. Turner Jr. defeated his opponent decisively, garnering nearly 60% of the vote. This landslide victory was not just a personal win; it was a mandate from the community. Voters signaled that they wanted judges who understand the complexities of the law and the humanity of the people appearing before them.
He officially assumed office on January 6, 2025, beginning a six-year term that will last until 2031. This historic win made him the first African American man to be elected judge in Los Angeles County as a public defender, a legacy he is proud to uphold.
** judicial Philosophy: Restorative Justice**
What kind of judge is George A. Turner Jr.? His philosophy centers on the concept of restorative justice.
Moving Beyond Incarceration
George A. Turner Jr. has been vocal about the limitations of a purely punitive justice system. He points out that despite California building 23 prisons over the last 50 years, public safety issues persist. He argues that if incarceration were the sole solution to crime, Los Angeles—with its massive jail system—would be the safest place on earth.
Instead, George A. Turner Jr. advocates for community-based solutions. He understands that many defendants suffer from mental health issues, drug addiction, or extreme poverty. Addressing these root causes, rather than just “putting people in cages,” is central to his approach to public safety.
Modernizing the Court
Another key pillar of his platform is modernization. George A. Turner Jr. believes that the court system relies on archaic processes that slow down justice. He is committed to updating these systems to make the courts more efficient, transparent, and accessible for everyone involved.
The Impact of Representation
Representation matters in the judicial system. When the bench reflects the diversity of the community it serves, trust in the legal system increases.
A Voice for the Community
George A. Turner Jr. brings a unique voice to the Superior Court. As a black man raised in Inglewood and a father of three boys, he understands the fears and hopes of families in his district. His lived experience allows him to adjudicate with empathy and insight that cannot be learned from textbooks alone.
Inspiring Future Generations
His success serves as a beacon of hope for young people in Inglewood and beyond. George A. Turner Jr. proves that you can come from the community, serve the community, and rise to the highest levels of leadership without compromising your values.
Key Endorsements and Support
The journey to the bench is rarely a solo endeavor. George A. Turner Jr. was supported by a broad coalition of organizations and leaders who believed in his vision.
- Labor Unions: He received backing from the LA County Public Defenders Union Local 148, recognizing his years of service to indigent defense.
- Progressive Organizations: Groups like the Working Families Party, La Defensa, and LA Forward endorsed him for his commitment to systemic reform.
- Community Leaders: Endorsements from figures like LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia and Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez highlighted his broad appeal across city leadership.
These endorsements underscore that George A. Turner Jr. is viewed as a trusted and capable leader by a wide spectrum of the Los Angeles political landscape.
What to Expect from Judge George A. Turner Jr.
Now that he is on the bench, Los Angeles can expect George A. Turner Jr. to rule with the same integrity and compassion he displayed as an attorney.
Fairness and Integrity
He has stated that knowledge, integrity, and compassion are the most important principles for an elected official. In his courtroom, litigants can expect to be heard and treated with dignity, regardless of their background or financial status.
A Focus on Solutions
Expect George A. Turner Jr. to look for outcomes that actually solve problems. Whether it is diverting a mentally ill defendant to treatment or ensuring a fair trial for a complex criminal case, his focus will remain on justice that restores and heals, rather than just punishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is George A. Turner Jr.?
George A. Turner Jr. is a judge of the Superior Court of Los Angeles County. Before being elected in 2024, he served as a Deputy Public Defender for over 15 years, representing indigent clients and working on criminal justice reform.
2. What is George A. Turner Jr.’s educational background?
He was valedictorian at Morningside High School in Inglewood. He later earned his bachelor’s degree Summa Cum Laude from UCLA in 2004 and obtained his law degree from UCLA Law School, specializing in Critical Race Studies.
3. When was George A. Turner Jr. elected to the Superior Court?
George A. Turner Jr. won the general election on November 5, 2024, defeating Steve Napolitano. He officially assumed office on January 6, 2025.
4. What is George A. Turner Jr.’s judicial philosophy?
He is a strong advocate for restorative justice and alternatives to incarceration. George A. Turner Jr. believes in addressing the root causes of crime, such as mental health and addiction, rather than relying solely on imprisonment.
5. Where is George A. Turner Jr. from?
George A. Turner Jr. was born and raised in Inglewood, California. He is a lifelong resident of the area and continues to live in the community where he was raised with his wife and three sons.
