The Commission on Judicial Performance has instituted formal proceedings to inquire into matters concerning former Justice William J. Murray, Jr. of the California Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District. The commencement of formal proceedings is not a determination of judicial misconduct. A copy of the Notice of Formal Proceedings is posted on the commission’s website at https://cjp.ca.gov (under “Announcements”). Former Justice Murray’s Answer to the Notice is due June 30, 2025. Upon filing, the former justice’s answer will be made available for public inspection.
In accordance with the rules that govern commission proceedings, a hearing will be conducted by special masters appointed by the Supreme Court. At the hearing, the parties will have an opportunity to introduce evidence and examine and cross-examine witnesses. Commission Trial Counsel, Mark A. Lizarraga, and Assistant Trial Counsel, Melissa G. Murphy, will serve as Examiners for the commission. Former Justice Murray is represented by Attorney Andrew J. Waxler of Los Angeles.
Following completion of the hearing, the special masters will provide the commission with a report containing findings with respect to the charges. The parties will have an opportunity to present their views on the report to the commission through briefing and argument. If the commission determines that the charges are proven by clear and convincing evidence, it is empowered to censure, publicly admonish, or privately discipline the former justice. Charges that the commission determines are not proven will be dismissed. A determination by the commission to censure or admonish a former justice is subject to discretionary review by the Supreme Court upon petition by the former justice.
The Recorder has Retired Appellate Justice Accused of Delaying Case Decisions for Years and the DJ has Retired justice faces discipline over chronic case delays at 3rd District and the MetNews has Retired C.A. Justice Faces Disciplinary Charges - William J. Murray Jr. Was Among Third District Justices Who Delayed in Deciding Cases, Sometimes for Years and the ABA Journal has Retired California justice faces disciplinary charges for allegedly taking too long to decide cases