On Friday, July 12, 2024, the Daily Journal reported that Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Thomas J. Griego was disciplined for a second time by the Commission on Judicial Performance due to rude and improper behavior towards litigants, especially those representing themselves.
According to the Commission’s findings, between April and November 2023, Judge Griego repeatedly interrupted litigants during court proceedings, raised his voice, and made disparaging remarks that conveyed bias. In one small claims case, he referred to the litigants as “two pigs in the trough, fighting with each other.” In another matter, Judge Griego compared an adverse small claims judgment to having a felony on one’s record. He also frequently insisted litigants address him as “Your Honor” even when a personal address was not necessary.
In a 16-page public admonishment, the Commission determined Judge Griego’s conduct violated judicial ethics codes regarding being patient, dignified, and courteous. It also found he failed to perform his duties without demonstrating bias or prejudice and failed to promote public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary. While acknowledging a judge must control their courtroom, the Commission said it was improper to do so in a discourteous or impolite manner, especially towards self-represented parties.
This represents Judge Griego’s second discipline from the Commission. In 2017, he received an advisory letter for improperly investigating a traffic accident case and failing to recuse himself. Judge Griego was elected to the bench in 2014 despite a “not qualified” rating from the LA County Bar Association during his 2010 judicial campaign. He declined to respond to the Daily Journal regarding the Commission’s most recent admonishment.
Source: Daily Journal
