Brevard County voters will select a judge for Group 3 in the November 2026 general election, marking one of the most anticipated judicial races in recent years. The position oversees civil and criminal cases in courts covering portions of the Space Coast, including areas from Titusville to Palm Bay. With no incumbent seeking re-election, the race has drawn attention from local legal professionals and community leaders.
The judicial election is part of a broader effort to update Brevard’s court system, which handles over 150,000 cases annually. Current Judge Maria Lopez, who has served since 2018, will not run again, leaving an open seat. The candidate field includes former public defender James Carter and retired judge Linda Kim, both of whom have filed paperwork with the county elections office.
Voter registration deadlines for the 2026 election are set for October 10, with early voting beginning September 24. The race has already sparked debate over judicial philosophy, with Carter emphasizing reform in sentencing practices and Kim focusing on court efficiency. Local bar associations have not endorsed either candidate, citing the need for neutrality.
The election comes as Brevard County faces rising case loads due to population growth. The judge’s office will oversee a budget of $2.3 million, including funds for court staff, technology upgrades, and community outreach programs. Campaign finance reports show both candidates have raised over $50,000 as of April 2025, with significant support from legal aid groups and business associations.
Residents can access candidate statements and voting information through the county’s elections website, brevardvotes.com. The winner will serve a 12-year term, with the next election scheduled for 2038.