On Monday, March 10, 2025, the California Commission on Judicial Performance announced that a formal hearing had been scheduled concerning Judge Michael J. Carrozzo of the Santa Barbara County Superior Court. This hearing is set to take place on April 14, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at the California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District, located at 200 East Santa Clara Street in Ventura, California. The proceedings will be open to the public, allowing community members to observe the inquiry into the allegations against the judge.
The Commission initiated formal proceedings against Judge Carrozzo on December 18, 2024, following allegations of misconduct related to his judicial position. Specifically, the proceedings focus on claims that he misused his authority to provide legal assistance to Sara Eklund, his former judicial secretary, who served under him from 2017 to 2020. The allegations include unauthorized legal practice, misleading statements, and abuse of judicial title for personal gain.
To preside over the hearing, the California Supreme Court has appointed special masters: Honorable Rebecca A. Wiseman (Ret.), Honorable C. Don Clay (Ret.), and Honorable Matthew P. Guasco. Each of these judges brings a wealth of experience from their respective judicial backgrounds, ensuring a thorough examination of the case.
During the hearing, both sides will have the opportunity to present evidence, as well as to examine and cross-examine witnesses. The Commission’s trial counsel, Mark A. Lizarraga, along with Assistant Trial Counsel Gregory J. Cleaver, will act as examiners during the proceedings. Judge Carrozzo will be represented by attorneys Heather L. Rosing, Christine C. Rosskopf, and Gabrielle M. Jackson.
Upon completion of the hearing, the appointed special masters will compile a report detailing their findings regarding the charges against Judge Carrozzo. The parties involved will then have the chance to respond to the report through additional briefings and arguments before the Commission. If the Commission concludes that the charges are substantiated by clear and convincing evidence, it has the authority to impose disciplinary actions as outlined in the California Constitution. Conversely, any charges that are not proven will be dismissed.
The allegations against Judge Carrozzo are serious and involve multiple counts of misconduct. The Commission’s Notice of Formal Proceedings specifies six counts, including claims of unauthorized legal practice, providing false statements, and misuse of his judicial title. Additionally, the allegations suggest that Judge Carrozzo displayed favoritism toward Eklund, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the integrity of the court.
In response to the allegations, Judge Carrozzo’s attorney, Heather L. Rosing, has emphasized his long-standing service and dedication to the bench throughout his career. Rosing has urged the Commission to consider the context of the charges, noting that Eklund is now married to Carrozzo and is the mother of their two children.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
