The California Supreme Court has announced the appointment of two new members to the Commission on Judicial Performance. This independent state agency is tasked with investigating complaints of judicial misconduct or incapacity and disciplining judges.
Effective March 1, Judge Kimberly Merrifield from the Superior Court of Butte County and Justice Julia C. Kelety from the Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division One in San Diego will join the commission. They succeed outgoing members Justice William S. Dato and Judge Michael B. Harper, who are completing their second terms.
The Commission on Judicial Performance operates under a mandate from the California Constitution to protect the public by enforcing rigorous standards of judicial conduct and maintaining public confidence in the integrity and independence of the judicial system. Its jurisdiction encompasses all judges of California’s superior courts as well as justices of the Courts of Appeal and Supreme Court. Additionally, it holds jurisdiction over former judges for conduct that occurred prior to their retirement or resignation.
The commission comprises 11 members: one justice from a court of appeal and two superior court judges appointed by the Supreme Court; two attorneys appointed by the Governor; and six lay citizens—two appointed by the Governor, two by the Senate Committee on Rules, and two by the Speaker of the Assembly.