Biographical Information
- Education: University of California, Davis; BA in English – University of Santa Clara; JD
- Pre-bench Legal Experience: 1983 – 1990, Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, Deputy District Attorney; 1990 – 2002, Assistant United States Attorney (San Francisco and Oakland); 1994 -1998, Deputy Chief of the Drug Task Force; 1998 – 2002 Chief of the Organized Crime Strike Force.
- Political Affiliation: Independent
Judicial Experience
Appointed by Governor Gray Davis in May, 2002, and sworn in on June 28, 2002. Began judicial experience in Department 35 of the Pittsburg Branch of the Superior Court (July 1st- December 13th), and moved to the Mt. Diablo Branch of the Superior Court on December 16th, 2002. Felony trial judge 2008-2011; Supervising Judge, Richmond, 2011-2012; Supervising Judge, Pittsburg, 2012-2013. Currently hearing felony trials, Martinez.
Civic & Professional Activities
- Member of St. Monica’s Catholic church in Moraga
- Member of Fratellanza Club, Oakland
- Member of the Italian Catholic Federation, Crockett
- Member of Galileo Club, Richmond
Important Cases
Cunningham v. California; People v. Cujina; People v. Bonetta/Wilen
Courtroom Policies
Judge Canepa rules from the bench, unless supplemental briefing is needed.
Teleconferencing
This issue has not occurred in her courtroom, as it is customary for all parties to be present. If the need arises, she will allow it.
Motions
They must be briefed by both parties within appropriate time limits.
Briefs
They must provide a clear factual statement and arguments must be supported by legal authority. “Boilerplate” motions are discouraged.
Discovery
Discovery must be provided in accordance with local rules and statutory authority.
In Limine Motions
The court encourages motions in limine in advance of trial in order to streamline the proceedings.
Voir Dire / Jury Instrucdtions
The court conducts a general voir dire and then allows counsel a limited period of time to conduct a more specific voir dire.
Witnesses
All witness lists must be provided to court and counsel in advance of voir dire.
Sanctions
Sanctions will be imposed if necessary.
Documents
All documents must be pre-marked and shown to opposing counsel before being shown to any witness.
Decorum
Attorneys should conduct themselves in a professional, respectful and courteous manner at all times.
Court Reporters & Translators
Judge Canepa has an assigned court reporter.
Translators are called on an as-needed basis. The most frequent language translated is Spanish.
Computers/Audio-Visual in the Courtroom
Although no one has requested additional technology in her courtroom, the court would permit it.
Cameras in the Courtroom
The court does not allow cameras in the courtroom.
Advice
She finds that the most effective attorneys are those who are prompt, well-organized, and clear and concise in their factual presentations and arguments.