Public Decisions Database
This database contains decisions on all public judicial disciplinary cases since the inception of the commission in 1960. Cases not involving public charges or public discipline remain confidential under the California Constitution and the commission’s rules.
Pursuant to amendments to the Constitution, which took effect in March 1995, the commission is authorized to impose all disciplinary sanctions, subject to discretionary review by the Supreme Court. Prior to that, the Supreme Court had the authority to censure or remove judges from office upon recommendation by the commission.
Case Profile
New Search| First Name | James J. |
| Last Name | McBride |
| Title | Judge |
| Inquiry No. | |
| Court Level | Superior Court |
| County/Appellate District | San Francisco |
| Discipline/Determination | Public admonishment |
| Decision By | Commission |
| Date of Decision | 11/18/2008 |
| Method of Resolution | Decision |
| Types of Misconduct | Demeanor/decorum Failure to ensure rights On-bench abuse of authority in performance of judicial duties |
| Petition For Review | |
| Summary | While presiding over the master criminal calendar, Judge McBride abused his authority by improperly advancing a trial date in a criminal case without notice to or the consent of the attorneys assigned to the case. In several other cases, the judge improperly relieved the public defender's office and appointed new counsel for the defendants. The judge also failed to be patient, dignified and courteous by making discourteous and disparaging remarks to attorneys appearing in court before him. |
| Documents |