Glenn County Superior Court Announces Executive Leadership Transition

The Glenn County Superior Court announces a transition in its executive leadership effective August 14, 2026.  The Court has selected Mr. Nicholas Gonzales to serve as Court Executive Officer (CEO), replacing outgoing CEO Christopher Ruhl, who will retire on August 14, 2026. Mr. Ruhl has served the Court as CEO since January 2024.

Under Mr. Ruhl’s leadership, the Court enhanced access to justice for the people of Glenn County by implementing numerous innovations and efficiencies, including the transition to paperless case processing, enhanced in-court access to digital court records, and implementation of eFiling. Mr. Ruhl also led the dedication of the newly renovated and expanded Willows Courthouse, marking a turning point for the consolidation of court services and increased access to justice.  Mr. Ruhl also served on numerous statewide committees, including the Trial Court Budget Advisory Committee (TCBAC).

Mr. Gonzales has served the Glenn County Superior Court since October 2023 as Fiscal and Administrative Services Manager, overseeing Finance, Human Resources, Facilities, and Court Security. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with an option in Management from California State University, Chico. Prior to serving the Glenn County Superior Court, he served the Butte County Superior Court in operations, accounting and administration. Mr. Gonzales said, “I am very thankful for the opportunity to serve both the judges and the people of Glenn County as the Court’s next CEO, and I am committed to continuing to provide exceptional, accessible, and fair access to justice for all.”

Presiding Judge Donald Cole Byrd added: “The Court is very grateful to Chris Ruhl for his service and leadership of the Court the past two and a half years, and we are excited to be able to work with Nicholas Gonzales as our next CEO.  This leadership transition brings both continuity and stability to the executive leadership of the Court going forward.” 

The Court will host a retirement celebration for Mr. Ruhl on Friday, August 14, starting at 4:00 p.m. in Department 1 of the Glenn County Superior Court, located at 526 West Sycamore Street in Willows. The celebration is open to the public.

For more information, please contact Court Administration at (530) 934-6382.

Glenn County Superior Court is dedicated to serving the community and upholding the principles of justice and equality.