Governor Appoints Brenda Pannell-Nash to Merced County Superior Court

MERCED COUNTY — November 7, 2026. Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the appointment of Brenda Pannell-Nash as a judge of the Merced County Superior Court, filling a vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Carol K. Ash.

Legal background

The governor’s appointment announcement describes Pannell-Nash as a solo practitioner since 2009, with earlier experience as an associate at several law firms. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law. The appointment lists her party preference as no party preference.

What the court handles

California superior courts hear civil, family, criminal and other matters within their jurisdiction. A change in judicial personnel affects the administration of the court, but it should not be interpreted as a decision in any pending case or a change in sentencing law.

Next steps

The governor’s announcement confirms the appointment. Court administrators will determine calendars and assignments according to their regular procedures. Residents with scheduled hearings should continue using official notices and the Merced County Superior Court website for case-specific information. The court’s operations and individual case outcomes cannot be inferred from the appointee’s biography.

Source: Governor’s judicial appointment announcement via Sierra Sun Times, November 2026.

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