On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the California Commission on Judicial Performance publicly admonished Judge Susan Bryant-Deason of the Los Angeles County Superior Court. The admonishment stems from Judge Bryant-Deason’s conduct during jury selection in a 2023 trial, where her interactions with prospective jurors were deemed inappropriate.

The Commission’s decision cited violations of judicial duties concerning courtesy, impartiality, and the appearance of impropriety.

The disciplinary matter specifically addresses Judge Bryant-Deason’s treatment of two prospective jurors in the case of Shashikant Jogani v. Haresh Jogani, et al., which ran from September 18, 2023, to March 8, 2024. The Commission found that the judge’s questioning of the jurors, who appeared to have limited English proficiency, was rude and discourteous. The Commission concluded that her remarks could reasonably be perceived as reflecting bias or prejudice.

The order included excerpts from the trial transcript where Judge Bryant-Deason questioned a prospective juror about their English skills and background. The Commission highlighted specific instances where the judge’s comments were considered demeaning and unnecessary to determine the juror’s ability to serve. The Commission also noted that the judge’s comments created the appearance that she was affronted by the prospective juror’s lack of English proficiency.

The Commission’s decision referenced the importance of jury duty and the impact of a judge’s behavior on public trust in the judiciary. The order stated that when a judge fails to treat prospective jurors with respect and dignity, it harms public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judicial system. The Commission acknowledged Judge Bryant-Deason’s 30 years of service and lack of prior discipline, but emphasized that her remarks undermined public confidence in the judicial system.

The Commission’s decision also noted that Judge Bryant-Deason had a duty to inquire into the potential jurors’ knowledge of the English language. However, the Commission found that this duty did not diminish her responsibility to ensure her remarks were courteous and dignified.

The Commission concluded that Judge Bryant-Deason demonstrated a limited appreciation of the impropriety of her conduct.

A copy of the original filing can be found here.