A retired Fresno County judge facing sexual assault charges is now represented by two legal heavy hitters.

Adolfo Corona appeared in court Thursday afternoon, entering through the front door used by most court attendees. The Fresno County District Attorney’s Office charged Corona in July with a felony count of  sexual penetration by force, fear or duress; and one misdemeanor count of sexual battery.

The alleged crimes took place March 14 during work hours at the main criminal courthouse. The victim is said to be a court employee.

Corona pleaded not guilty in September after the grand jury indictment was unsealed in July. He is free on $70,000 bail. The veteran jurist now has new counsel.

Michael Aed and Margarita Martinez-Baly made their first appearance on Corona’s behalf. The two renowned local defense attorneys have represented the likes of Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula.

At a hearing that lasted minutes, Joseph Kalashian, a visiting retired judge from Tulare Count presiding over the case, set a status conference for Dec. 16. A tentative trial date is set for Jan. 9.

“He’s a compassionate, charitable and humble man, and he looks forward to the opportunity to have this matter tried in the public court. He believes in the criminal justice system and he expects to be vindicated at the end of this case,” Aed said after the hearing.

Corona, accompanied by his wife, Marcella Corona, did not speak.

How would such allegations affect Corona’s reputation?

“Anybody would have concern about such salacious allegations being made. But we stand by the not-guilty plea that’s been entered in this case. And we will try this case in court,” Aed said.

Related Story: Alleged Sexual Assault by Judge Took Place at Fresno Courthouse

New Representation

Corona retired from the bench on May 1 after 21 years on the bench. Aed would not answer questions about the timing of the judge’s resignation, weeks after the alleged incident.

Attorney Eddie Ruiz initially represented Corona.

“He is entitled to counsel of his choice. This case came out of the blue without any pre-warning. He made certain decisions at the beginning of the case. He expects a vigorous and complete defense, and we intend to give him that,” Aed said.

If convicted, Corona faces up to eight years in prison.