Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed Clifford Tong to serve as a judge in the Stanislaus County Superior Court.

Tong, a resident of San Joaquin County, brings extensive experience and a strong commitment to justice to the bench.

Tong has served as Chief Deputy Alternate Defender at the Stanislaus County Alternate Defender’s Office since 2022. Previously, he was Chief Deputy Public Defender at the Stanislaus County Public Defender’s Office from 2021 to 2022, and served as a Deputy Public Defender from 2007 to 2021. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law. 

“Clifford Tong will be a fantastic addition to our bench,” said presiding Judge Sonny S. Sandhu. “His years of service and dedication to the community make him exceptionally well qualified. We look forward to welcoming him and are confident he will serve the people of Stanislaus County with integrity and distinction.” 

Tong expressed his gratitude and said he is “deeply honored by this appointment and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the people of Stanislaus County. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to uphold the principles of justice and fairness in our courts.” 

Details regarding a swearing-in ceremony will be announced at a later date.