Judge Cheryl L. Leininger: Professional Background and Legal Expertise

The Hon. Cheryl L. Leininger (Ret.) was a judge for the Superior Court of Orange County in California. She was appointed by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on June 5, 2009, filling a vacancy created by the removal of the Hon. Kelly MacEachern for misconduct. Leininger retired in 2022.

Prior to her appointment, she presided as a commissioner for the Orange County Superior Court since 1988.

Leininger received a B.A. from California State University, Fullerton in 1977. She then earned a J.D. from Western State University College of Law in 1981.

After graduating from law school, Leininger began her legal career as an associate with Silvas and Eaton in 1982. Then, in 1983, she became a deputy public defender with the Office of the Public Defender of Orange County, where she served until joining the bench in 1988.

In her free time, Leininger enjoys water sports, boating, and other outdoor activities.