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The Bernard E. Witkin Award recognizes individuals other than members of the judiciary for extraordinary
contributions to the courts of California. This year we honor Senator Darrell Steinberg,
who represents the people of the greater Sacramento region. He’s also the President pro Tem
of the State Senate; one of a dwindling number of California lawmakers with a legal background.
He says he takes every opportunity to share with colleagues his understanding of the third
branch.
“You do what you think is right. And one of my priorities has been to make sure that
that coequal branch of government has the respect and the stature that it needs and
deserves.”
The Witkin Award officially recognizes Senator Steinberg’s outstanding legislative service
to the people of California. To name just a few achievements, he authored legislation
to protect the elderly from financial abuse. He sponsored nationally recognized bills for
kids in foster care. He says it’s government’s duty to stand up for the vulnerable.
“Where they find themselves sometimes in life is no fault or responsibility of their
own. And it seems to me that it is our obligation to do everything that we can to help make
their lives better.”
Senator Steinberg has also been a strong advocate for the court’s capital program. He helped
to secure revenue for court construction projects – to establish a comprehensive statewide
approach.
“I was very pleased several years ago to play a role in helping the courts really move
forward aggressively in ensuring that we invest in the physical side. And it’s not just
new courthouses and new court buildings, it’s also security. It’s also making sure that
our facilities are accessible to everyone.”
Supporting the courts also figured into the intense legislative debate over the 2010/11
budget.
Senator Steinberg’s efforts were effective in minimizing the impact on the judicial branch
and court users. He considers it extremely important to try to protect the court’s
budget.
I’m very pleased that in the midst of a 19-billion dollar deficit, on top of the deficit
we had last year, that we were able to achieve as high a level of funding for the courts
as we were. Because at the end we’re talking about access to justice.”
Future budget negotiations will also be tough.
“No one will be immune from the impacts of the budget, but the courts deserve special
consideration.”
The Senator says he’s eager to renew his friendship with the new chief justice, Tani
Cantil-Sakauye. They were classmates in law school.
“And I look forward to working with her as partners to make sure that we continue
to triage our way through what will still be some difficult economic times, difficult
budget times. But we’ll get through it.”
And when he talks to youthful constituents, he remembers arguing before the court of appeal
as a nervous young lawyer.
“And I can never have imagined that I would be in a position where on a large scale I
could help the judiciary and help the courts and be a part of trying to make the system
better. To be acknowledged and recognized is really a high honor. I’m very grateful.”
Senator Darrell Steinberg, winner of the Bernard E. Witkin Award for 2010.