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 | Jose A. |
| Last Name | Velasquez |
| Title | Judge |
| Inquiry No. | 139 |
| Court Level | Municipal Court |
| County/Appellate District | Monterey |
| Discipline/Determination | Censure |
| Decision By | Commission |
| Date of Decision | 04/16/1997 |
| Method of Resolution | Stipulation |
| Types of Misconduct | Administrative malfeasance/improper comments, treatment of colleagues and staff Bias/appearance of bias toward a particular class Demeanor/decorum Failure to ensure rights Off-bench abuse of office/misuse of court information On-bench abuse of authority in performance of judicial duties |
| Petition For Review | |
| Summary | Judge Velasquez displayed a crucifix on the wall behind the courtroom bench. He allowed the use of his name and title in a fund raising solicitation celebrating the 23rd anniversary of Roe v. Wade. The judge also publicly announced a sentencing policy in driving under the influence of alcohol cases, which created the appearance of prejudgment. The judge made public comments disparaging fellow judges and attorneys in open court, in documents filed in court, in newspapers and on television broadcasts. |
| Documents |