Defendant Files Objection to Judge Assigned to Calif. Docket

OAKLAND, Calif. - The chairman of California's Judicial Council has appointed Alameda County Superior Court Judge Steven A. Brick to oversee the coordinated Welding Product Cases, replacing the retiring Judge Bonnie Sabraw. In re Welding Product Cases, JCCP No. 4368 (Calif. Super. Ct., Alameda Cty.).

Judge Yolanda N. Northridge, council chairman, signed the order on July 14.

Defendant Stoody Co. filed a challenge to Judge Brick's appointment on July 17, claiming that the judge "is prejudiced against Defendants in this action."

The challenge offered no details but was accompanied by a declaration by attorney Connie McFarland-Butler reiterating her belief that …