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 | Bruce |
| Last Name | Van Voorhis |
| Title | Judge |
| Inquiry No. | |
| Court Level | Municipal Court |
| County/Appellate District | Contra Costa |
| Discipline/Determination | Public reproval |
| Decision By | Commission |
| Date of Decision | 09/08/1992 |
| Method of Resolution | Decision |
| Types of Misconduct | Bias/appearance of bias not directed toward a particular class Demeanor/decorum Ex parte communications Improper political activities On-bench abuse of authority in performance of judicial duties |
| Petition For Review | |
| Summary | Judge Van Voorhis gave the appearance of prejudgment in a criminal case when he predicted the outcome in a discussion of the case in open court. On numerous occasions, the judge engaged in unauthorized ex parte communications and failed to be patient, dignified and courteous to jurors and court staff. The judge also misrepresented his marital status in election campaign literature and statements. |
| Documents | [ PUBLIC REPROVAL ] |