On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that a former Northern California judge has been reprimanded for his remarks to a domestic abuse victim during a court hearing. The California Commission on Judicial Performance issued a public admonishment to Del Norte County Superior Court Judge Robert Cochran, citing his comments as indicative of bias and discourtesy that could potentially erode public confidence in the judicial system.
Cochran, who was elected to the bench in 2018 after a lengthy career as a private attorney, presided over a domestic violence case in May 2023. In this case, a woman accused her partner—the father of one of her children—of repeatedly assaulting her and threatening her life. The victim presented photographic evidence of her injuries and sought a restraining order to protect herself from further violence.
During the hearing, Cochran questioned the victim’s decision to remain in her home with her alleged abuser, asking, “If this is true what you’re telling me, why are you still in that home with this person a year later?” He further criticized her by stating, “You got a problem. To stay in a relationship like that under these circumstances… you’ve got a daughter who you’re setting a bad, bad example for.”
The judge also made comments to the accused, suggesting that the victim was “manipulating” him and that he had “played into her trap.” He noted that the man’s financial support for the household might have influenced her willingness to endure the alleged abuse. The commission’s report highlighted that these remarks reflected a lack of respect and sensitivity toward the victim.
Despite issuing a three-year restraining order against the accused, Cochran did not mandate that he attend any therapeutic program for batterers. Furthermore, he accepted the man’s no-contest plea to a felony charge of domestic abuse but opted to sentence him to probation without prison time. Notably, the victim was not allowed to participate in the hearing regarding the plea.
The commission found that Cochran’s conduct during the proceedings violated state law, specifically regarding the treatment of victims in domestic violence cases. The commission emphasized that judges are required to treat all parties with dignity, respect, and courtesy, especially in sensitive cases involving abuse.
Cochran’s attorney, Randall Miller, defended the judge’s approach, stating that judges in rural areas often develop closer relationships with community members. He argued that this personal connection can lead judges to feel a heightened responsibility for the welfare of their community.
Cochran retired from the bench last month after completing a single six-year term.
Source: San Francisco Chronicle
