This is just one example of the class act Judge Neel is and how lucky Humboldt is to have her be our Presiding Judge

 

I already posted about new Humboldt Superior Court Judge Heather Cooper's ceremony on September 14. Just a few minutes ago, the media received this personal invite from Humboldt Superior Presiding Judge Kelly Neel. She is a class act. I know this because I have known her as a Humboldt Deputy DA, Deputy Counsel and now judge. The public deserves to see for themselves how lucky we are to have Judge Neel.

No press release has been issued but the ceremony is public if you want to attend. It is at 3 p.m.

"Greetings to you all,

 If we haven’t already sent a press release, one will be forthcoming, but if anyone is interested, our newest Superior Court judge, Heather S. Durand, will be sworn in; we have 8 judicial officers (which includes the Commissioner) and for the first time, we’ll have an equal number of women on the bench as we do men.

Should be a ceremony if anyone cares to pop in."

Humboldt Superior Court press release (issued 9/24/26 at 1:55 p.m.): 

Heather S. Durand was appointed to the position of Superior Court Judge, County of Humboldt, August 24, 2026.  She will be sworn in on October 2, 2026, and will begin her judicial duties in a criminal law assignment on October 5, 2026. 

Ms. Durand grew up in Yolo County. She earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Sonoma State University, then earned her law degree from Empire College School of Law. She has been practicing law in Humboldt County for 26 years. Before this appointment, Heather S. Durand worked for the Humboldt County Counsel’s Office since 2018. During that time she was assigned to County Behavioral Health and the Public Guardian’s Office.

Ms. Durand worked extensively on the CARE Court program. This program was created to provide community-based behavioral health treatment and housing support, and has made a large impact on our unhoused community. Humboldt County’s CARE Court program has been widely praised as one of the top ten most successful CARE Court programs in the state. As counsel for County Behavioral Health, Ms. Durand also worked with the Sheriff’s Office and Court to secure expedited psychiatric treatment for inmates in the Humboldt County Jail. She has also been an integral part of the County’s Penal Code §1001.36 Mental Health Diversion program.

Presiding Judge Kelly L. Neel stated that, “We are fortunate and thrilled to be welcoming Ms. Heather S. Durand to our Bench.  Ms. Durand is a well-respected and long-time member of this legal community and I have every confidence she will serve our county with thoughtfulness and integrity.”

“I’m honored and humbled by the governor’s appointment and look forward to continuing to serve the community in this new role,” said Ms. Durand.