6 minute read
Judge's Profile
Questions and Answers with Judge Chernus
Vincent DeMartini
Honorable Roy O. Chernus, a distinguished figure in the Marin Superior Court, has left an indelible mark on both the legal and community landscapes. With a career of over forty years, spanning several pivotal roles, including Commissioner, Executive Director of Legal Aid of Marin, and Judge of the Marin Superior Court and Supervising Judge of the Civic Division, Judge Chernus has demonstrated his commitment to justice and equality.
Judge Chernus received a bachelor’s degree from George Washington University and a Juris Doctorate from New York Law School. After approximately twenty years in private practice, Roy Chernus became the Director of Legal Aid of Marin County, refocusing the emphasis from North Bay general concerns to addressing local Marin County issues and engaging many local attorneys as volunteer counsel to successfully resolve local issues for Marin residents.
In 2005, Judge Chernus was appointed Commissioner in Marin Cou e Adams to create and implement a “Self-Help Center” to assist local individuals involved in the court system to understand and navigate the complex requirements of litigation.
Judge Chernus has played a pivotal role in securing essential treatment for veterans through his leadership in establishing the Marin County Veterans Court. This innovative program focuses on supporting veterans charged with crimes while ensuring they receive the necessary treatment they deserve and enabling them to complete diversion programs.
Judge Chernus has been an active supporter and facilitator in Youth Transforming Justice (YTC) for over eighteen years. YTC is a restorative justice program for juveniles, utilizing an effective peer-led process (Peer Solutions) As Judge Chernus states, “I have frequently said that teens may lie to their parents, teachers, and probation officers. However, they seem to tell the truth to their peers. I think that is part of the ‘magic sauce ’ of peer solutions.” During Judge Chernus’ tenure, the program has diverted over 1,500 teens from the juvenile court system.
Judge Chernus’ remarkable achievements have garnered prestigious awards, including the Martin Luther King, Jr Humanitarian Award and the Lawyer of the Year Award from the Marin County Bar Association These honors capture the profound influence he has in both the legal realm and broader community. As he approaches his well-deserved retirement next month, Judge Chernus's absence will undoubtedly be deeply felt throughout the entire community of Marin.
Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a Judge in the Marin Superior Court?
I have had a career in the legal profession for over forty-three years. In 2005, I was appointed as a Commissioner for the Marin County Superior Court. I became a Judge in 2011 and was excited to serve the county of Marin, as I found a supportive and friendly environment within the Marin Superior Court. During my tenure supervising the Civil Judges, I was particularly proud of the initiation of the Unlawful Detainer Settlement Calendar. This approach led to the resolution of almost all of the eviction cases that were presented in court.
Can you share an example of a particularly impactful event in your career that reaffirmed your commitment to the legal profession?
One powerful moment that resonated with me was the positive manner in which the Marin Superior Court judges and staff adapted when the pandemic hit. Overnight, we all had to pivot so that court business could continue to go on during a severe international pandemic. My colleagues learned to use Zoom, keep cases afloat, and essentially become ‘IT support’. Judge Haakensen was a particularly tech-savvy person on the court floor. It was amazing how quickly everyone adapted and cooperated to handle the business of the people.
I have always been impressed and heartened by the way that the citizens of Marin who came in for jury duty acted. It seemed clear that they felt they were there to do their duty as a member of the community, and rarely showed any frustration or annoyance.
Your leadership extended to support new endeavors, such as the Marin County Veterans Court. Could you discuss how you navigated the challenges and achieved success in this endeavor?
Over the past three and a half years, I have been overseeing the criminal misdemeanor department, working with the District Attorney's office and veterans to establish the Marin County Veterans Court, even with the challenges posed by the pandemic.
The Veterans Court initiative extended its reach to include every veteran facing criminal charges in Marin County, provided the veteran was open to undergoing treatment as part of a diversion process. This program included a wide spectrum of offenses, from felonies to misdemeanors. An outcome of this effort was that those who successfully completed the prescribed treatment program saw their charges dismissed. This approach was our way of expressing gratitude to those who served our country.
What advice do you have for young legal professionals who aim to make a meaningful impact within the legal field and their communities?
For young lawyers, I would offer a few pieces of advice. First, it is important to remain active in the Bar Association and other professional associations. Second, it is important to learn from others. I recommend finding a mentor or mentors. Last, I would recommend devoting some time to pro-bono work with other organizations within the community to maintain insight into local issues of impact.
Would you share your thoughts regarding the greater legal community of Marin?
I am a proud member of the Marin County Bar Association, and I am particularly proud of the attorneys in Marin County. I have found that almost all are well-prepared, ethical, and incredibly qualified. All of you attorneys should be giving yourselves a pat on the back! Marin County is just such a wonderful place to practice law and be a community member.
What follows your retirement?
I have been married to my wife Renee for forty-five years, and it has truly been such a wonderful experience. We have both shown commitment to the legal profession and giving back to the community and supported each other throughout our careers and intend to continue in the future. Frankly, I have been a very, very lucky man.
