It is not uncommon for Telugu girls to venture abroad for their studies and secure professional employment. However, Jaya Badiga diverged from this path, altering her initial career, pursuing law after becoming a mother, and ultimately ascending to the judiciary in the United States. Jaya Badiga has been designated as a judge of the Sacramento Superior Court in California, marking her as the first Telugu woman to achieve this distinction. Here, she recounts her journey.
About My Childhood
“I was born in Vijayawada but nurtured in Hyderabad. My father, Ramakrishna, was an industrialist and erstwhile Member of Parliament. My mother, Prema Latha, is a homemaker. I am the third daughter among four siblings. I attended St Ann’s in Secunderabad. Being a missionary school, it instilled in us the importance of social service. I imbibed the habit of contemplating societal welfare from my father. My mother aspired for me to study law, but my father was hesitant to send me away. Consequently, I pursued a degree in Political Science from Osmania University.”
How I Entered This Profession
“My entry into this profession was serendipitous. After obtaining my master’s degrees in International Relations and Mass Communications from Boston University, I worked for several years at a charitable organization called ‘WEVE’ (Women Escaping a Violent Environment). There, I developed a profound understanding of the tribulations faced by women, particularly those from our country who lack awareness of the legal system here. Local women also grapple with myriad issues, such as child sexual assault. This exposure inspired me to study law. Thus, I enrolled in a law program at Santa Clara University.”
The Bar Exam
“My husband Praveen, a hardware engineer at Intel at the time, was very supportive. We had a child while I was studying law. Preparing for the California Bar Exam with a baby was challenging, so I sent her to stay with my mother in India temporarily. The baby returned immediately after the exam. On the day the results were announced, I was extremely anxious. With my baby on my lap, I opened my laptop, chanting ‘God, God, God’. Seeing my name in the Bar Council register was an immense relief. With my family’s support, I thrived as a family law specialist in California. I practiced independently from 2018 to 2022, then served as an attorney at the California Department of Health Care Services and the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. Since 2022, I have been serving as a superior court commissioner.”
Professional Challenges
“Like any other field, this profession presents numerous challenges, including gender discrimination. In my early days as a lawyer, I was mocked for my lack of an American accent. Nevertheless, I proved my mettle in court. Legal expenses are prohibitive for common people, and children suffer greatly in divorce cases. Therefore, I emphasized family counseling whenever possible. My goal has always been to ensure justice for those in need.”
Raising Children
“Balancing work and childcare is a formidable task. Initially, my mother and grandmother provided invaluable support. Now that the children are older, they are more self-reliant. However, many of our people are unaware of child protection laws here and encounter difficulties. In one instance, a family I know was celebrating late at night, and a cup of tea accidentally spilled on a baby’s hand. They took the baby to the hospital the next day, and the staff questioned why the baby was up so late and near the stove. This led to a significant discussion and a case. Even in schools, any behavioral differences in children prompt scrutiny of the parents.”
Preserving Our Culture
“No matter where we are, we must not forget our roots. That is why I observe Varalakshmi Vratam and other festivals. Once, I was so engrossed in a ritual that I missed a court session. As soon as I received the call, I rushed to attend the hearing. As a mother, I instill our customs in my children and cater to all their needs. True happiness lies in family life, irrespective of one’s professional achievements.”
The Rigorous Process of Becoming a Judge
“It is an arduous process. I applied in 2021, and the results were announced only recently. Completing the application takes two to three months. We must detail our hobbies and recount our school and college experiences. We need to list at least 75 individuals who have influenced our lives. The application makes our life an open book. All these details are scrutinized by the judicial committee, which then nominates candidates. Subsequently, another team conducts a thorough review. In addition to the 75 people we mentioned, a total of 250 people are interviewed. Then comes the final interview. If anyone provides negative feedback, it is addressed during the interview. Once they are satisfied, the name is forwarded to the governor. If there is a vacancy, another interview follows.”