Young on August 3, 1927, and served until April 11, 1934, when he took an appointment from Governor Rolph as an Associate Justice for the California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District, Division 3.

After serving for a little more than six months in that position, he accepted an appointment to return to the bench on the Los Angeles Superior Court by Governor Merriam on November 1, 1934.

On January 2, 1943, he was appointed Presiding Justice of the California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District, Division 3 by Governor Olson.

The Knights of Columbus Council #3449, located at 5459 Atlantic Avenue in Long Beach, is named after Judge Walter Desmond.

The Gerald Desmond Bridge which opened in 1968 and connects Terminal Island and Long Beach, was named in his honor.