Judge Ana de Alba, a distinguished figure in the legal landscape of Fresno, California, embodies a remarkable journey from the fields of Central California to the United States District Court. Her story, deeply rooted in her experiences as a first-generation Mexican American and the child of farmworkers, underscores a profound commitment to justice and equality. This article explores the life, career, and impact of Judge de Alba, highlighting her dedication to serving the underserved and upholding the law.
Born in Merced, California, in 1979, Ana de Alba’s early life was marked by hard work and firsthand exposure to the injustices faced by farmworkers. Working alongside her family in the fields and cleaning homes, she witnessed the challenges and inequities that fueled her ambition to pursue a legal career focused on making justice accessible to all. Instances like the denial of clean drinking water in the fields and her mother’s unpaid labor on a cucumber farm solidified her resolve to advocate for those who often lack the resources to seek redress. Judge de Alba’s academic achievements include a B.A. with highest honors and a J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, in 2002 and 2007, respectively.
Legal Career at Lang, Richert & Patch in Fresno
After graduating from law school, Judge de Alba began her legal career at the Fresno-based law firm of Lang, Richert & Patch. She joined as an associate and later became a partner. Her practice encompassed a wide range of legal areas, including employment law, personal injury, business law, and construction law. In addition to her litigation work, she also advised the Consulate of Mexico, demonstrating her commitment to serving the Hispanic community. She also served as an adjunct professor at San Joaquin College of Law where she taught Civil Rights Litigation.
During her 11 years in private practice at Lang, Richert & Patch, Ana de Alba dedicated herself to providing pro bono legal services, averaging 300 hours annually. This commitment was exemplified by the establishment of a monthly Workers’ Rights Clinic, a collaborative effort involving Legal Aid at Work, the Consulate of Mexico in Fresno, Central California Legal Services, Inc., and Lang, Richert & Patch. This clinic played a crucial role in educating low-wage workers about their employment rights and providing them with individual consultations with attorneys to address workplace issues. Prior to becoming a judge, de Alba assisted over 300 workers through this clinic.
Judicial Experience: From Fresno County to Federal Court
In 2018, Judge de Alba’s career took a significant turn when she was appointed by Governor Jerry Brown to the Superior Court of California in Fresno County. During her tenure, she served in the Criminal Division, Misdemeanor Department (2018-2021), and later moved to the Juvenile Justice Center. She also contributed to various committees, including the Civil Grand Jury Oversight Committee and the California Judicial Mentorship Program.
On January 19, 2022, President Biden nominated Judge de Alba to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California. Her nomination received bipartisan support, and she was confirmed on June 16, 2022.
Notable Cases
Judge de Alba’s judicial career is marked by her involvement in several significant cases, including those related to labor law, immigration law, and constitutional law.
Labor Law: Martinez-Sanchez, et. al. v. Anthony Vineyards
In Martinez-Sanchez, et. al. v. Anthony Vineyards Inc., Judge de Alba presided over a case involving a class of workers who alleged violations of the California legal code and the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act. The workers claimed that their employers denied them lunch breaks, sick leave, and other required benefits, in addition to forcing them to clock in before and after their shifts and requiring them to maintain their own tools. The case potentially impacted tens of thousands of farmworkers.
Immigration Law: Singh v. Garland
In Singh v. Garland, Judge de Alba reviewed a decision by United States Citizenship & Immigration Services denying an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative. The plaintiff, a 75-year-old Indian immigrant, sought to have his alleged biological son admitted to the United States. Judge de Alba granted the government’s motion for summary judgment, finding that the government had a reasonable basis for its decision.
Constitutional Law: People v. Dominguez and People v. Medina
In People v. Dominguez, Judge de Alba suppressed evidence of a DUI investigation after finding that the arresting officer did not have a legitimate reason to stop the defendant. In People v. Medina, Judge de Alba denied the defendant’s motion to suppress evidence obtained during his arrest, finding that police had probable cause to search his vehicle under the Fourth Amendment’s automobile exception.
Community Involvement and Accolades
Beyond her judicial duties, Judge de Alba is deeply involved in her community. She has served on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Central Valley Access to Justice Coalition, California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc., and the Fresno County Bar Association. She has received numerous honors for her legal service and leadership, including being named Pro Bono Attorney of the Year by the Fresno County Bar Association in 2012 and receiving the Champion of Justice Award from Central California Legal Services, Inc., in 2018.
Judge de Alba’s commitment extends to mentoring the next generation of legal professionals. She has served as a member of the California Judicial Mentor Program and the Pathways to Law School Regional Advisory Council.
Conclusion
Judge Ana de Alba’s journey from the farm fields of Central California to the United States District Court is a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and community service. Her experiences have shaped her perspective and fueled her passion for ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have access to the legal system. As a judge, she continues to make a significant impact on the lives of those in the Eastern District of California, upholding the principles of fairness and justice for all. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring lawyers and a reminder of the importance of dedication, perseverance, and a deep-seated commitment to serving others.
Resources
- United States Courts: https://www.uscourts.gov/
- Lang, Richert & Patch: https://www.lrplaw.com/
- California Courts: https://www.courts.ca.gov/
