Class of 1976
The Honorable Gary S. Austin was the Student Body Association President in 1976 at SJCL. After graduation he first worked as a law clerk for the District Court for the Eastern District of California and then as Deputy District Attorney. He became a Municipal Court judge in 1986. In 1988, he joined the Superior Court, where he presided over criminal cases, including death penalty cases, served as Presiding Judge of the Juvenile Division and has presided over civil and family law matters. He currently serves as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Eastern District of California, following almost twenty years on the Fresno County Municipal and Superior Courts.
Gary has a new bride this year, Kim. She works for the Administrative Office of the State Courts. Gary's son, Brice, is a splendid student and a fabulous athlete in high school and Gary's dedication to family is unparalleled.
Gary enjoys tennis and snow skiing when time permits. He is a member of the California Judges Association, a former member of the Board of Trustees for the County of Fresno Law Library, and a former member of both the Fresno County Bar Association and the California State Bar Association. He currently serves as a board member of the Federal Bar Association, San Joaquin Chapter.
During his years at SJCL, Judge Austin most enjoyed the Thursday night gatherings at The Outpost after class. He also has fond memories of his time spent working in student government while in law school.