Luis Esparza

Santa Barbara deserves a courthouse that works — efficiently, fairly, and with dignity for everyone who walks through its doors.

I am Luis Esparza, a lifelong Santa Barbara resident and independent attorney with 22 years of experience across criminal, civil, family, business, and probate law. I came home after earning my degrees because this community is where I belong and where I want to make a difference.

Why I'm Running

Our Superior Court faces real challenges: chronic case backlogs, continuances that drag on for months, and a judiciary whose demographics don't yet reflect the diversity of Santa Barbara County. I believe courts run better when judges bring fresh perspective, private-practice experience, and a direct connection to the people they serve. Santa Barbara needs a judge for our time.

I have spent my career as a solo practitioner — no big firm, no political patrons — representing everyday people in high-stakes matters, including victims of childhood sexual abuse, families navigating probate, and individuals facing criminal charges. I am bilingual, and I understand the barriers many in our community face when they enter the legal system.

What I Will Bring to the Bench

• A practical, efficiency-focused approach to reducing court backlogs
• A dispute-resolution process to divert cases that don't need full litigation
• Strict impartiality — I have been registered No Party Preference since I was 18
• A courtroom where every person — regardless of background — is treated with respect and dignity

Community Service

• Santa Barbara County Grand Jury (2015–2016)
• Special Master, State Bar of California (2015–present)
• Board Member and President, 19th District Agricultural Association / Earl Warren Showgrounds (2021–present)
• Santa Barbara City College Citizens' Bond Oversight Committee (2015–2018)
• City of Santa Barbara Fire & Police Pension Commission (2012–2015)
• Measure P Committee (2007–2013)

Education

• Juris Doctor, USC Gould School of Law
• Master of Laws, Purdue Global Law School
• B.A., University of California, San Diego

Change is earned one case, one family, one fair decision at a time. I am ready to do that work.