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. | 165 |
| Court Level | Superior Court |
| County/Appellate District | Contra Costa |
| Discipline/Determination | Removal from office |
| Decision By | Commission |
| Date of Decision | 02/27/2003 |
| Method of Resolution | Decision |
| Types of Misconduct | Administrative malfeasance/improper comments, treatment of colleagues and staff Bias/appearance of bias toward a particular class Bias/appearance of bias not directed toward a particular class Demeanor/decorum On-bench abuse of authority in performance of judicial duties |
| Petition For Review | Denied 09/10/2003 |
| Summary | Judge Van Voorhis was repeatedly sarcastic, demeaning and belittling to attorneys, mistreated a juror, was harsh, rude and intemperate with court staff and a bailiff during proceedings, and lost his temper, spoke harshly and threw files at a clerk in the courtroom when court was in session. The judge also made comments to an attorney reflecting ethnic bias, suggested he made a legal ruling for an improper purpose, and gave the appearance of non-neutrality by his improper demeanor toward certain prosecutors. The judge had previously received a public reproval and a private admonishment for similar conduct. The judge subsequently was advised orally and in writing by his presiding judge that he still had a demeanor problem that needed to be addressed. |
| Documents |