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 L. |
| Last Name | Stevens, Jr. |
| Title | Judge |
| Inquiry No. | 143 |
| Court Level | Superior Court |
| County/Appellate District | Yolo |
| Discipline/Determination | Public admonishment |
| Decision By | Commission |
| Date of Decision | 02/19/1998 |
| Method of Resolution | Stipulation |
| Types of Misconduct | Bias/appearance of bias toward a particular class Bias/appearance of bias not directed toward a particular class |
| Petition For Review | |
| Summary | During an in-chambers conference, Judge Stevens referred to two female juveniles, who were not present, as "bitches." After a hearing during which a male juvenile defendant appeared to charge toward the judge, the judge referred to the defendant as not having a "Chinaman's chance" of reaching him. The judge previously was disciplined for inappropriate and offensive remarks. The commission noted that the judge was intending to retire. |
| Documents | [ NOTICE ] [ PUBLIC ADMONISHMENT ] |