After graduation from law school, Edward Panelli established
a law practice in San Jose, California, with emphasis on probate,
domestic relations, personal injury, and general business. He
served as the general counsel to the Santa Clara University and
the California Province of the Society of Jesus. In 1972, he was
appointed to the Santa Clara Superior Court where he served in
all departments including Presiding Judge in 1980. In 1983, he
was appointed Associate Justice of the Court of Appeal, First
District, and in 1984 was appointed Presiding Justice of the new
Sixth Appellate District in San Jose. In 1985, he was appointed
to the California Supreme Court by then-governor George Deukmejian.
Justice Panelli has served as lecturer and instructor in many
programs dealing with the justice system and administration of
justice. He is a member and vice chairman of the Judicial Council
of California and currently serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees
of Santa Clara University.
