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 | Melissa N. |
| Last Name | Widdifield |
| Title | Judge |
| Inquiry No. | |
| Court Level | Superior Court |
| County/Appellate District | Los Angeles |
| Discipline/Determination | Public admonishment |
| Decision By | Commission |
| Date of Decision | 12/14/2010 |
| Method of Resolution | Decision |
| Types of Misconduct | Alcohol or drug related criminal conduct |
| Petition For Review | |
| Summary | In 2009, Judge Widdifield drove her vehicle in a reckless manner while under the influence of alcohol, with a blood-alcohol level of approximately .09 percent. She was subsequently convicted of reckless driving, a violation of Vehicle Code section 23103(a), pursuant to Vehicle Code section 23103.5. The Commission determined that Judge Widdifield’s unlawful action evidences a serious disregard of the principles of personal and official conduct embodied in the Code of Judicial Ethics. The Commission quoted the advisory committee commentary to canon 2A: “Public confidence in the judiciary is eroded by irresponsible or improper conduct by judges.” |
| Documents |