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 Paul E.
Last Name Zellerbach
Title Judge
Inquiry No.
Court Level Superior Court
County/Appellate District Riverside
Discipline/Determination Public admonishment
Decision By Commission
Date of Decision 08/15/2006
Method of Resolution Decision
Types of Misconduct Administrative malfeasance/improper comments, treatment of colleagues and staff
Miscellaneous off-bench conduct
Non-performance of judicial functions/attendance/sleeping
Petition For Review
Summary Judge Zellerbach failed to give judicial duties precedence when he delayed taking a verdict in a murder case because he was at a baseball game, refused to allow another judge who was available to take the verdict, and did not return from the game to take the verdict himself.
Documents

[ PUBLIC ADMONISHMENT ]