With the looming retirement of Santa Barbara County Superior Court Executive Officer Darrel Parker, the judges have unanimously selected his deputy to fill the top job.
Angela Braun, the current chief deputy executive officer, will assume the top civilian job upon the retirement of Parker in February. The job involves serving as the court executive officer/clerk of the court and jury commissioner.
The Superior Court judges approved Braun’s promotion, according to an announcement Friday.
Parker will retire after nearly four decades of service in California’s trial courts, beginning his career in Los Angeles County and concluding with 13 years as court executive officer in Santa Barbara County.
During his tenure, Parker guided the court through significant operational, fiscal and technological challenges while maintaining a steadfast commitment to access to justice and service to the community.
He has had to deal with challenges surrounding emergency repairs after a pipe sent water into two courtrooms as well as a vandalism incident that set off fire sprinklers and damaged a different courtroom, both in Santa Maria. Another incident led to flooding in a Santa Barbara court facility.
His tenure also has seen logistical challenges, including wrestling with how to accommodate complex multiple-defendant trials and implementing measures in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Braun has worked for the courts for 15 years and has a deep understanding of trial court operations countywide, Parker said.
Most recently, she has served as chief deputy executive officer, overseeing all trial court operations in Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and Lompoc.
Braun’s career began in the Traffic Division, where she advanced to supervisor, later managing jury operations, and subsequently serving as senior manager of Criminal Court Services.
Her broad operational experience, collaborative leadership style and dedication to public service have earned the confidence of the judiciary and court staff alike, Parker said.
“Angela Braun has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service, operational excellence and the fair administration of justice throughout her career,” Presiding Judge Patricia Kelly said.
“She understands this court from the ground up and leads with integrity, professionalism, and respect for the vital role our courts play in the community. The judges are confident that she will build upon Mr. Parker’s legacy and continue to guide the court with skill, vision, and dedication.”
The local judges also extended their deep gratitude to Parker for his extraordinary service and leadership.