Hobbs Names Wade as New Pima County Superior Court Judge

Governor Katie Hobbs announced on Tuesday that Nathan Wade, a University of Arizona graduate, will take on the role of Pima County Superior Court judge.

Wade earned his law degree from the UA’s James E. Rogers School of Law and has spent nine years as a public defender in Pima and Pinal counties. Since July 2023, he has also served as a court commissioner.

“Nathan Wade has dedicated his entire legal career to serving the State of Arizona,” said Hobbs in her statement. She expressed excitement about his appointment, stating that he will enhance public trust in the judicial system.

Wade replaces Judge Renee T. Bennett, who resigned last year, creating the current vacancy.

According to Hobbs’ office, while serving as a public defender, Wade was instrumental in shaping several statutes within Arizona’s criminal code. He also collaborated with the Arizona State Bar to develop language for the state’s rules of criminal procedure.

The Pima County Superior Court comprises 53 judicial officers handling various cases, including criminal, civil, family law, juvenile, and probate matters.

Wade was one of eight candidates considered for the position following the retirement of Judge Kenneth Lee. The public has until February to offer comments on the remaining applicants.

To qualify as a Superior Court judge, candidates must be at least 30 years old, licensed to practice law in Arizona, a resident of Arizona for the past five years, and a resident of Pima County for the past year. The current annual salary for a Superior Court judge stands at $190,000.