Tag: judicial accountability
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Utah Court Releases Transcript in Tyler Robinson Case, Reigniting Debate Over Transparency, Security, and Fair Trial Rights
A Utah judge has released a lightly redacted transcript from a closed pretrial hearing in the capital murder case against Tyler James Robinson, the man accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The decision reignites debate over court transparency, media influence, and how the justice system balances public access with a defendant’s right to a…
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California Family Courts Under Scrutiny: Minors’ Counsel, Taxpayer Costs, and a System Resisting Oversight
An investigative report by The Davis Vanguard highlights issues in California family courts regarding the appointment of minors’ counsel and parenting coordinators, raising concerns about costs, conflicts of interest, and oversight. Critics argue for reform to enhance transparency and accountability, emphasizing that unchecked systems undermine the original intent to protect children’s best interests.
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When Courts Release the Manual but Not the Map
The article discusses the implications of California Rule 10.500 for public access to court records, particularly in the case of People v. Smiel. It highlights how the Los Angeles Superior Court’s transparency efforts, while disclosing training materials, still restrict structural access. This raises questions about the necessary level of transparency in digital justice systems.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — December 14, 2025
On October 6, 2025, the Los Angeles Superior Court held a significant hearing in the case of People v. Giselle Farias Smiel without public access or proper notification. Advocates, including ADA support personnel, were excluded. This breach of transparency undermines First and Sixth Amendment rights, as well as ADA Title II protections, raising serious legal…
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Oregon Senator Sounds Alarm on Family Courts—Raising Questions Californians Should Not Ignore
Oregon is experiencing increasing scrutiny over family courts, spurred by Senator Suzanne Weber’s concerns about unchecked judicial power and limited transparency. Complaints have emerged from constituents highlighting systemic issues, echoing similar criticisms in California. The lack of accountability and federal funding influences demand nationwide reform, though responses remain sparse.
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When Family Court Fails: What Las Vegas’ “Judging the Judges” Survey Misses — And Why California Should Worry
A new survey of Clark County Family Court judges reveals alarming error rates, low retention scores, and rising secrecy—issues California’s own courts must not ignore.
California Bay News 