CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — Valery R. Polyakov, a prosecutor, attorney, scientist, and longtime Contra Costa County resident, is running for Judge of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa in the June 2026 election.
Mr. Polyakov brings an unusually broad professional background to the race. Before becoming a California attorney and prosecutor, he earned a Ph.D. in Chemistry and built a successful scientific career in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research. He was selected as a Fulbright Scholar, one of the nation’s most prestigious academic exchange honors, and later held senior scientific and research positions in the biotech industry.
After transitioning to the legal profession, Mr. Polyakov practiced civil litigation, patent law, family law, and criminal law before becoming a prosecutor. He has handled numerous jury trials involving DUI, domestic violence, and other criminal matters, and has also served as a volunteer settlement officer.
Mr. Polyakov says his campaign is focused on competence, fairness, efficiency, and public trust in the judicial system.
“People deserve judges who understand the real-world impact court decisions have on families, victims, defendants, and self-represented litigants,” Mr. Polyakov said. “I believe the judiciary should be fair, respectful, efficient, and accessible to everyone.”
Mr. Polyakov also noted that he is the only candidate in the race who was not appointed by the Governor, giving voters a direct choice in the election.
“At a time when most judges reach the bench through appointment, this election gives the public an opportunity to directly choose who will serve on the court,” Mr. Polyakov said.
His campaign emphasizes judicial independence, equal treatment under the law, and improving public confidence in the courts.
More information about Valery Polyakov’s campaign can be found at Polyakov4Judge.com.
