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Some sad news to report out of the Maricopa County Superior Court: Judge Pendlelton Gaines, 66, died yesterday after a battle with cancer.
Gaines, an 11-year veteran on the bench, was currently assigned to the court’s Criminal Department after serving in both the family and civil courts. Prior to his assignment to the Criminal Department, Gaines also served as the Civil Department’s associate presiding judge.
Known for his integrity and sense of humor, Gaines died at St. Joseph’s Hospital last night.
“He was an excellent and respected civil trial lawyer for more than 30 years before he became a judge,” Superior Court Presiding Judge Norman Davis says. “He was hardworking and collaborative, and respected in the community. We have lost a great judge, a charming and dignified professional, a wonderful person, and a dear friend.”
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Before becoming a judge, Gaines was an associate and partner with Evans, Kitchel & Jenckes from 1969 to 1989. From 1989 to 1999, Gaines was a partner with Phoenix-based Fennemore Craig.
A graduate of the University of Arizona, Gaines got his law degree from the University of Virginia.
Memorial services for Judge Gaines are pending.
