.
Every day, concerned citizens such as yourselves reach out and tells someone about Judicial Council Watcher and we pick up another reader.
About once per week, one of those thousands of daily readers ventures out on out information superhighway as a new poster to JCW. The people that post on JCW venture from citizens concerned about our court system, to lawyers whose survival is reliant upon the court system, to employees of the superior courts as well as the appellate courts and administrative office of the courts, to judges of this states superior courts and justices of the courts of appeal both active and retired; to legislative aides that work in the state assembly and finally to the journalists of other news organizations. We have a very diverse group that not only reads but participates here as JCW.
All we’re missing is you dear reader. We wish you were here participating in JCW.
You’re one of the thousands of people that reads Judicial Council Watcher every day but does not post. Some have ventured a post just to explain that the things we’re telling you is more accurate than information you’re getting from the AOC. Some post just to say they don’t post because other writers do such a good job. It might be apparent to a few regular readers that a whole lot more people that are reading (and not posting) are also availing themselves of the post rating buttons – a more subtle way of participation but valued participation nonetheless.
We would also like to remind you of our private, encrypted, untraceable message window called secure forms ( https://forms.hush.com/judicialcouncilwatcher ) where all information is optional and you can contact the customer delight team that moderates JCW, the journalists that work with us and as others will attest, we even deliver messages thru the private message window to our posters, provided we have their real email address on file. We also encourage you to use the private message window to avail us of the facts in the event we get our facts wrong.
In less than two years you have moved a mountain. Celebrate yourselves as true patriots on this day.
In less than two years of JCW’s operations you dear readers have moved mountains. You’ve begun to turn the tide on boondoggles and outright fraud, waste and abuse by the AOC and Judicial Council. You’ve handcuffed them from wasting the very funds that keep you employed and keep the courts open to the public. We’re not downplaying the significant, devastating cuts to the court system that will cost more jobs or the increases in fees that will put justice out of reach for a few hundred thousand more people each year to the advantage of corporations and the elite 1% that can simply win their cases by outspending their opponents. We find many of these increases both disturbing and necessary but it does not mean they’re the right thing to do. Our courts must find a reliable funding source for both our operations and programs that are not reliant upon convictions – like vehicle licensing fees.
Our work is far from complete.
According to our sponsors, the only way this site will go offline is when a democratically elected judicial council takes office and takes some decisive steps at reparations and restoring branch credibility. Employees have been unjustly fired. Lawyers have been unjustly disbarred. Judges who have spoken out against the death star have had their careers unjustly curtailed by either an out of control CJP or the insiders who have run this branch for the past 15 or so years. We must reform this bully organization. We must take a look at the recent past and the lives ruined and try to make things right, simply because its the right thing to do. We never said doing the right thing was easy and it won’t be easy. But if this branch is to ever regain credibility, being honest and doing the right thing, no matter how difficult or embarrassing it might be is essential to justice itself, if not the branch itself.
AOC management must go: AOC employees must learn to do more with less.
Here’s a shocker: I bet you would be floored to learn that the largest sponsors of AOC reforms here at Judicial Council Watcher are…….
AOC employees – past and present.
That’s right. No one provides more aid, technical assistance, information and financial underwriting of Judicial Council Watcher more than past and current AOC employees do. No one. They are not against the AOC. They are for the trial courts and against the mismanagement and patronage they witnessed for years that continues to this day. While hardly any of them actually post here at JCW, we get plenty of daily communications from quite a few past and current AOC employees. They too wish their organization would do the right thing. Their morale is crushed not by what the trial courts think of them – but the way employees who have legitimate concerns are and have been treated. They want an independent Inspector General for the Judicial Branch and they want the confidential fraud, waste and abuse coordinator fired. They want to see managers held accountable for their deciet and mismanagement but most of all, they wish to truly serve the courts for the benefit of all Californians.
Trial court employees, appellate court employees and AOC employees are all crying foul over Justice Miller’s public comment period because they can’t afford to comment and lose their jobs when their names are posted on the internet.
To permit you to comment, we’ve worked out an arrangement with Michael Paul to incorporate trial court, appellate court and AOC employee comments into his own comments for submission. Please use our private message window with a subject line of “SEC COMMENTS FOR MICHAEL PAUL” and we’ll forward them out right away – but don’t wait as he wishes to submit around the 15th of July.
________________________________________________________________________
Comments recieved to be forwarded on-
From: An employee of the appellate court
Subject: SEC survey response
I’ve worked in the appellate courts for more than a dozen years. I’ve had the pleasure of working with the gentleman that is delivering this message. For as long as I can recall, Mr. Paul successfully worked to re-establish lost trust between our appellate court and the AOC. Mr. Paul’s first job at the AOC was no pressure. No pressure at all! For three days none of the appellate courts, the supreme court or the AOC had email. He was called in to fix our email system and he did. Mr. Paul was communicative, informative and genuinely concerned about the way our system was previously deployed by the AOC. Prior to CCMS, email was our largest internal boondoggle because it was unreliable. Mr. Paul changed that. (As an aside: They can’t run an email system and you want to trust them to run ccms?)
On one weekend way back in 2003, he redesigned and redeployed the entire email system for all of the appellate courts, all of the aoc and the supreme court. After that redeployment, we never had another email issue. His team later traveled to our court and upgraded our ccmail system to Microsoft Exchange. From my point of view, Mr. Paul was one of the most honest, loyal and conscientious employees in the AOC IT department. That trust that he worked to re-establish left when he did but this reply is not about Michael. This reply is in response to the SEC survey.
For many years before Michael arrived at the AOC, our court was in a pitched battle with the AOC IT department because they ran our systems and they ran our systems poorly. Sometimes, they didn’t run at all. This was a constant source of angst for our court management because our court was reliant on an entity that could care less about us. Control was the name of the game and no one wanted to make waves in San Francisco over their failed IT policies that crippled our court. Most of our court, myself included has read the SEC report. Implementing the recommendations outlined in that report is an essential first step to the Judicial Council and the AOCs lost credibility.
From: A Del Norte county court employee
Thank you judicial council watcher and Michael Paul for giving us a vehicle where we can comment without fear of reprisal. Please implement the findings of the SEC report without delay or modification. Thank You.
From: An AOC employee
Subject: SEC Report
I’m just throwing my comment out there to demonstrate that you’re all biased at JCW. I’m sure you’ll ensure this never gets posted in Michael Paul’s letter to the judicial council.
The SEC report touched on quite a few serious problems. However, the judges composing the SEC report don’t work with us on a daily basis. They have a view from 100,000 feet of the AOC’s operations. How they could ever come to a subjective conclusion that the AOC is overstaffed is irresponsible. We too have house payments to make and kids to feed. We do a great deal of thankless work for the courts. We’re not control freaks like you make us out to be. That’s just ridiculous and so is judicial council watcher.
From: A small northern California court
Subject: SEC comments for Michael Paul
Kindly implement all findings of the Strategic Evaluation Committee before the end of the calendar year. Thank You.
From: A San Joaquin County court employee
Subject: SEC comments for Michael Paul
After reading the replies of judges on the California courts website, I wish to adopt and endorse the comments of Judges Maino, Horan, Oki, Lewis and Dukes. The time for surveys and comments is over. The new CJ is losing support for her lack of leadership. She needs to implement the SEC recommendations and stop passing the buck.
From: donotreply@forms.hush.com (please contact us back and tell us where you are from in general terms)
Subject: SEC COMMENTS
Dear Chief Justice and Judicial Council,
I’ve been a judicial branch employee for over 20 years. I’m not the type to make waves or get involved in high stakes politics that might cost me my job. Unfortunately it appears if my coworkers and I wish to keep our jobs and serve the public, then the people at the AOC who don’t serve the public need to be losing theirs, starting with Mr. Todd Torr and the every boss above him that authorized this arrangement. My comments are being delivered by Michael Paul through the judicial council watcher site because you gave me no other choice if I wish to keep my job. I wish to personally thank you for that bit of thoughtfulness; someone else must deliver that personal message of thanks for me as well. The real reason the SEC report is out for public comment is so that you can encourage others to derail the report while court and AOC employees are silenced. You’re not fooling anyone.
From: An AOC employee
Subject: SEC Comments
I work for the AOC and agree with the findings of the SEC report. I’ve never worked any place that had so many obscenely paid managers that know little to nothing about the field of expertise they work in.
________________________________________________________________________
Related articles
- The Strategic Evaluation Committee Report and “The Great Whitewash of 2012″ (judicialcouncilwatcher.wordpress.com)
- ACJ Message: Courthouse News Article Regarding Budget (judicialcouncilwatcher.wordpress.com)
- Major Changes to trial court funding statutes! Reforms favored by the Alliance of California Judges to become law! (judicialcouncilwatcher.wordpress.com)
- The lack of credibility and leadership now emanates from the office of the Chief Justice (judicialcouncilwatcher.wordpress.com)
- Now what? Mass resignations of managers? Don’t hold your breath. (judicialcouncilwatcher.wordpress.com)
- The long-awaited SEC (Strategic Evaluation Committee) report is released (judicialcouncilwatcher.wordpress.com)
- Whiskey For My Men, Beer for My Horses (judicialcouncilwatcher.wordpress.com)
unionman575
July 4, 2012
Well said JCW.
Wendy Darling
July 4, 2012
The Judicial Council Watcher: the living embodiment of The First Amendment, and one of the most important freedoms commemorated this Independence Day.
Long live JCW and The First Amendment. And long live the ACJ.
wearyant
July 4, 2012
Thank you, JCW and Michael Paul, for making it possible for those very important commenters to be heard by all! Perfect timing for the July 4th celebrations.
Recall Tani!
Long live the ACJ!
unionman575
July 4, 2012
And now a word from “Hot Rod” Michael Roddy down in San Diego SC…
WTF Hot Rod?
unionman575
July 4, 2012
Hot Rod has money for scanning BUT no people to staff San Diego SC…WTF?
Judicial Council Watcher
July 4, 2012
Thanks to an attentive reader, we’ve added a video from Judge Steve White that just serves to reinforce our commitment. We hope it reinforces your commitment as well.
unionman575
July 4, 2012
It does JCW.
Thanks!
🙂
wearyant
July 4, 2012
JCW, much thanks for adding the video of Hon. Steve White’s comments! Totally loved it! I’ve heard the comments before and seen them in writing, but seeing the video was invigorating. Let’s roll, people!
The “thumbs up” ratings are off JCW’s usual richter scale. Wow, lots of readers. LOVE IT!
We all survived another July 4th! Hope everyone’s pets survived well too.
Long live the ACJ!
Long live Hon. Steve White!
And recall Tani! Yes!
unionman575
July 4, 2012
Ant it appears the word has now spread far and wide that JCW this is the place to get info, and give info, to other interested stakeholders in our branch.
It’s about time!
We ALL have a shitload more work to do!
🙂
wearyant
July 5, 2012
Agreed, Unionman! And I’ve got plenty more shit to dish out! The JC/AOC/CJ is a never-ending source of it! Until their farce ends, it will be raining their way.
Recall Tani!
Long Live the ACJ and Hon. Steve White!
May intelligent minds prevail!
Wendy Darling
July 4, 2012
The entire judiciary is watching . . . and the other two branches as well.
And concerned, informed members of the public, such as those here.
We are watching, and we demand honest, ethical, demonstrable accountablity. It is the public duty of the Office of the Chief Justice, the Judicial Council, and the AOC, and it is required.
Long live Judge White and the Alliance of California Judges. Forever.
unionman575
July 4, 2012
This one goes out to you Tani…
unionman575
July 4, 2012
It is time to fold ’em Tani…
https://recalltani.wordpress.com/
courtflea
July 4, 2012
I won’t get into where I could go with the “hot Rod” metapohor (I know I cant spell) but for the moment while I am still behaving, could JCW post somewhere the comments that are going to Michael Paul, so don’t we overwhelm him with repetative comments? I certainly have a lot to say but I am sure my fellow bloggers that are much more articulate than this flea may have already said what I wanted to say but much better. Sound good?
By the way Union man thanks for the death star blow up but I saw the 70’s original tonight…can you post that one too? all we need to do now is hire James Earl Jones to do the voice over and we can do a recall Tani spot or at least a parody of her comments on the legislatures new handcuffs on the AOC/JC. Happy 4th I have explosions on my mind tonight. 🙂
Wendy Darling
July 4, 2012
Hey, Ant, haven’t you heard? The Chief Justice thinks handcuffs are GREAT!
Long live the ACJ.
unionman575
July 4, 2012
Happy 4th Flea!
unionman575
July 4, 2012
Kinda reminds me of the “Star Chamber” up at the Death Star.
Who’s the mummy? Billy Boy or Ron-O?
And the search goes on for the next lucky winner to head the Imperial Palace up there in SF…
Judicial Council Watcher
July 4, 2012
That’s a good idea courtflea,
We’ll append comments to be forwarded to Michael to the bottom of this post as they arrive, less any personally identifying information.
We would ask that to the greatest degree possible that you do identify yourself even if it is in general terms like “Alpine County Court Employee” or “AOC Employee”
Runston maino
July 4, 2012
The Chief Justice has asked for public input on the SEC Report. The address to give the Chief Justice and members of the Judicial Council your ideas about this report is, I believe, invitations@jud.ca.gov.
There will probably be posted on this blog some materials from the Alliance of California Judges that will give you more information and alternative ways to communicate with the Chief Justice and the Judicial Council. Any comments you make will be made public along with your name.
wearyant
July 5, 2012
Thank you, Hon. Maino. This info is much appreciated. And it will be utilized. As we all know and realize, the “underdog” has always been favored in America. We have always pulled for the so-called common man and truth, justice and the righteous way. Americans are a generous and kind people. If certain parties think they can “win” by playing low-life and tricky (stacked deck) “games,” they’re in for a big surprise.
Yeah, the lousy pun is for you, teensy Tani.
Recall Tani!
Long live the ACJ and the Hon. Steve White!
Delilah
July 6, 2012
I urge everyone to read the comments that are coming in. This public comment period is obviously just another pathetic, redundant ploy to retain the status quo as long as possible. But it may not have been the best idea the CJ/JC ever had — HAHAHAHAHAHA (Oh, the irony. Can you say “backfire”?) — cuz now people have another outlet for their anger other than just here at JCW. And of course Judges Maino and Horan totally rocked it! Thank you again, sirs. But many others judges are stepping up to the plate, with gusto. I wish we could post the public comment link to all the people that signed the Petition to Disband the AOC. It would be great to get some members of the general public, those who have been harmed and inconvenienced by court closures and reduced hours, yet have no fear of retaliation, to share their comments, outrage and frustration.
http://www.courts.ca.gov/18441.htm
And yes, possible new entries in Delilah’s Devil’s Dictionary for the AOC: Public Comment Period equals Stalling for Time, Taking Action equals Circling the Wagons, and Handcuffs equal Wings to Fly. Kinda lame, I admit. Hey, feel free to fix ’em up and add your own!
Delilah
July 6, 2012
>>It would be great to get some members of the general public, those who have been harmed and inconvenienced by court closures and reduced hours, yet have no fear of retaliation, to share their comments, outrage and frustration.<<
ETA: Respectfully, of course, as there is a certain decorum that should be maintained and adhered to in written public comments, as opposed to commenting here at JCW, obviously, our own stomping grounds, where every poster has his/her own unique and cherished style and flair *-)
wearyant
July 6, 2012
Delilah, you slay me! You think some of us here might not have — um — the decorum required to comment to the CJ? hee hee. Don’t worry. This situation within the third branch is too important to be silly about. I have been extremely disheartened about it in the past and perhaps have not just let my hair down, but thrown it about; but after reading some of the very well reasoned comments so far in the url you thoughtfully provided, I have renewed hope and vigor for our judicial branch! The judges are stepping up. I hope those not within the ACJ step up too!
Recall Tani!
Long live the ACJ!
Wendy Darling
July 6, 2012
Or, put another way Delilah and Ant, here at JCW we get to wear our jammies. But in our public comments, we need to be wearing our suits and ties, and other “proper business attire”.
Long live the ACJ.
Judicial Council Watcher
July 6, 2012
Major, major backfire by the look of it. I’m half-way through these comments and COULD NOT be happier with the response thus far.
As for other court and AOC workers, we had 4 people submit comments thus far that will be included in Michael Paul’s comments – and then nothing,.If Judges can do it and there are ten times more employees than judges, we expect you would produce at least as many comments as the judges. So get cracking!
unionman575
July 6, 2012
Here ya go Tani here’s my comment about the comments…
🙂
unionman575
July 5, 2012
JCW is a relentless distiller of facts and purveyor of clear-eyed, unsentimental analyses
To all you AOC folks out there please pick a moniker and join the discussion here on JCW.
We ALL want and need your input. Thanks!
🙂
Judicial Council Watcher
July 5, 2012
For some odd reason it seems our readership has more than doubled in the past couple of weeks. That’s an amazing increase. Thank you.
A Court Reporter
July 5, 2012
I was a skeptic when I read about your customer delight team yesterday but after my email exchange with them, you have the friendliest, most polite staff on any website anywhere. Kudos to Judicial Council Watcher for protecting the citizens of this state.
Judicial Council Watcher
July 5, 2012
We’re merely another platform advocating change. You court reporter – and all of your coworkers are the vehicle for change. The kudos goes out to you.
Wendy Darling
July 5, 2012
Published today, Thursday, July 5, from The Metropolitan News Enterprise:
Alliance Founder Horan Endorses SEC Recommendations, Blasts Comment Process as Lacking Integrity
By a MetNews Staff Writer
A retired Los Angeles Superior Court judge and founder of the Alliance of California Judges has urged the Judicial Council to move quickly to implement the recommendations of the Strategic Evaluation Committee.
Charles Horan, who left office last year after 23 years on the bench, submitted his views as part of a public comment process set up by the Judicial Council. But he called that process flawed, saying it was “unfairly structured to guarantee a skewed result” in favor of the status quo.
The SEC report, presented to Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye in late May, was critical of virtually every facet of the operations of the Administrative Office of the Courts. It made nearly 150 recommendations for changes.
The chief justice referred the report to the council’s Executive and Planning Committee, chaired by Fourth District Court of Appeal Justice Douglas Miller. The council opened a “rolling public comment period” at its June 21 meeting.
Horan, who emphasized that he speaks only for himself, and who provided a copy of his comments to the MetNews, criticized the plan to publish the names of all commenters. This means that “honest employees” of the AOC who spoke candidly to the SEC under promise of confidentiality will not be able to repeat their comments to the AOC.
This further means that “Justice Miller’s explicit promise made at the Council meeting of June 21 that he would jealously protect the integrity of the process cannot be kept,” Horan insisted.
He also suggested that “judges…struggling with budget cuts, court closures, and staff layoffs—will rightly ask: ‘Why should we tell you what we have told you again and again, when you refuse to act on what we say?’”
Public comment is unnecessary, he argued, because the AOC has gotten all the advice it needs over the past six years in the form of internal and external reports and surveys, culminating with the SEC report.
The “recurring themes” of those reports, Horan characterized, were that “the AOC is a dysfunctional, control-oriented, bloated and overstaffed agency which habitually oversteps its bounds, and cannot be counted on to deliver trustworthy information to the state’s judges, the legislature, or even the Council” because of “a seeming inability to engage in thoughtful analysis.”
Rather than engage in “further discussion, study, surveys, and hand-wringing,” the jurist wrote, the council should move forward with reform.
The council, he went on to say, has stepped far beyond the limited role set forth in the state Constitution, which makes it a rulemaking and recommending body. Instead of performing that straightforward role, he said, it has spent the past 15 years or so making broad policy pronouncements that the unaccountable AOC has used as a license to act “as it sees fit, often with little guidance, oversight, or apparent care…and with no measure of success or failure.”
He further rejected suggestions that a successor to recently retired Administrative Director of the Courts William Vickrey be in place before the council acts on the SEC report. The council, not the director, needs to be in the forefront of reform, Horan said.
Also commenting on the SEC report was former Los Angeles Superior Court Presiding Judge Charles W. McCoy Jr. In a letter dated last week, a copy of which was obtained by the MetNews.
McCoy urged that committee’s recommendations that the AOC be required to provide the council with “a business case analysis, including a full range of options and impacts, before undertaking any branch-wide project or initiative” and that it “employ an appropriate business case analysis of the scope and direction of significant projects or initiatives, taking into account the range of fiscal, operational, and other impacts to the courts” be “adopted immediately and implemented without delay.”
Previous proposals to require such analysis were rejected by the council, including during the time he was a member, McCoy noted. This “has proved to have been a tragic error leading to profound adverse consequences, as demonstrated by subsequent events involving CCMS and other costly Branch spending initiatives.”
Long live the ACJ.
disgusted
July 5, 2012
Does anyone else see the similarity between the Assoc. des Eleveurs De Canards and the AOC? Couldn’t help myself. The whole article is on Courthouse News 7/5/12.
How Fat Can You Stuff a Goose?
By MATT REYNOLDS
ShareThis
LOS ANGELES (CN) – Goose liver lovers claim in court that the California law that effectively banned sales of foie gras is unconstitutionally vague, as it does not define just how fat you can stuff a goose.
The Association des Eleveurs De Canards et D’Oies du Quebec and two U.S. companies, including a restaurant group, sued California, its Attorney General Kamala Harris and Gov. Jerry Brown in Federal Court.
They claim that the state’s bar on foie gras, which took effect this week, should be struck down for vagueness under the Constitution’s due process clause of the U.S.
Foie gras is made from the fattened liver of a duck or goose, usually by force-feeding corn to the bird. The fatty liver is believed to taste better than the liver of birds that are not force-fed.
Animal lovers crusaded against force feeding, and persuaded the Legislature to ban it. California’s bird feeding law, enacted through the Health and Safety Code, imposes a $1,000 per day penalty on anyone who force-feeds birds to enlarge their livers, effectively banning the delicacy in the state.
The law defines force-feeding as causing birds to “‘consume more food than a typical bird of the same species would consume voluntarily,'” according to the complaint.
*******—>>> But the plaintiffs say it “is impossible for anyone to know at what point a particular bird had been fed ‘more food’ than the bird feeding law allows,'” and that the law does not offer guidelines based on weight, volume or any other measure.
anonymous
July 5, 2012
If you really think about it, this is a patently unfair fight. About half of the judges in this state, every union in the court system, every association, every justice partner and a “few guerrilla media companies” that are all working to, in essence, overthrow a branch of government -and they’re winning.
The “guerrilla media companies” work with others to win hearts and minds while relentlessly pounding the AOC from every conceivable direction and all the AOC can do is wait for it to pass while wondering if it ever will. I don’t know how much the AOC spends on their ministry of truth operations but if you wanted to carve out some savings, as long as this site lives, the ministry of truth is neutered.
Unconventional warfare at its finest – the green berets would be proud.
Wendy Darling
July 5, 2012
No one here is confused about who is wearing the white hats at this point . . . and who isn’t.
But those at 455 Golden Gate Avenue have no one to blame but themselves. Lying, or being “less than truthful,” is unacceptable conduct for any public agency, but is especially egregious when the public agency is the adminisration of the California Judicial Branch. So is punishing people for telling the truth. Those in charge in the Office of the Chief Justice, the Judicial Council, and the AOC, chose the black hats they are wearing, and were proud to do so. They can take them off anytime they want, and start being truthful, and ethical.
Until then, this site will live on. My guess is that JCW is going to be around for a very long time.
As they say in the Marines, Semper Fidelis.
Long live the ACJ.
Wendy Darling
July 5, 2012
Published today, Thursday, July 5, from Courthouse News Service, by Maria Dinzeo:
Ventura Courts Snag Local Funding
By MARIA DINZEO
SAN FRANCISCO (CN) – Faced with budget cuts that have forced the closure of one courthouse, Ventura County Superior Court is turning the clock back and going to the county government for funds. The move runs counter to a long campaign, started by former chief justice Ron George, to push California’s trial courts into a single system funded by the state and under the control of a central bureaucracy.
“If the state is not going to help us, we have to think of a creative solution,” said Dien Le, president of Ventura’s bar association.
“At least temporarily it looks like it would be a good way to go,” said Presiding Judge Vincent O’Neill. “We’re looking at it as a two-year, almost-grant project.”
In the neighboring giant of Los Angeles County, Judge Robert Dukes said, “I think it’s fascinating after this state trial court funding fiasco we now see where the downfall of that is. They’re going to go back to county funding because the counties are not in the same dire shape. If what Ventura is doing is working, others may start doing the same.”
Such a trend would reverse the long campaign to exert central control over the local courts, orchestated by the former chief justice in 1997, through legislation that moved the source of court funds to the state Legislature and away from the counties where it had been historically. At the same time, George began expanding the bureaucratic arm of the courts by leaps and bounds until it had more than tripled in size.
But that train has ground to a halt.
In its budget bill, the Legislature made sure the money it allocated for the local courts could not be siphoned off by the bureaucracy and it has pushed that bureaucracy, the Administrative Office of the Courts, to cut its workforce. A recent and scathing report by a evaluation committee of judges recommended the office reduce its size by roughly one third.
In contrast to the initiative taken in Ventura, Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye, said recently that she does not support a return to local funding for the courts. She took over from George a little less than two years ago.
In a teleconference last week, one reporter asked the chief justice whether courts are better off going back to county funding.
“Absolutely not,” she replied. “Trial court funding was a genius act by chief justice Ron George.”
She noted that it is up to each court’s presiding judge and executive board to decide how best to handle the budget crisis. “Every court has an elected presiding judge and a team of judges who advise the presiding judges on how to move forward.”
“Our courts are comprised of very smart people,” she added. “It’s a matter of how each court can absorb this. I don’t have a one size fits all answer except it is probably not a solution that gets to be made by one person,” she said.
Le with the Ventura bar said he had no problem with uniformity for the courts, as it pertains to rules and websites, but it is a different matter when it comes to money.
“If they want to make everything uniform and controlled by Sacramento, that’s their problem,” said Le. “We’re all for uniformity, but if they’re not going to give us the budget, we have to help ourselves.”
Last week, Ventura Superior received $100,000 from the Ventura County Board of Supervisors to save its East County Courthouse in Simi Valley from closure. Le said the court needs $275,000 a year to stay open two days a week, and has asked several major Ventura County cities, including Thousand Oaks and Oxnard, for additional funds.
“They were very receptive and welcome to this idea, they were on board right away without any argument,” Le said.
Ventura’s head judge O’Neill credited local officials with the effort’s initial success. “Essentially what happened was the court gave notice of the impending closures, city supervisor Peter Foy responded and took the lead and the city manager from Simi Valley, Mike Sedell, joined the effort. Both of those gentlemen have been working hard to make it happen.”
But, he added, “In our mind, we’re still looking at a closed courthouse unless something good comes along money-wise.”
With the courthouse closure effective last month, Ventura will have to move all its cases from Simi Valley to Ventura’s Hall of Justice, including its traffic, criminal and unlawful detainer operations. So far, family law and civil matters have already moved.
“It’s going to be a big problem for a lot of people and it’s going to result in a delay in access to justice,” Le said. “All the employees were either laid off or moved to Ventura. There’s been a lot of layoffs. There’s only one commissioner who will sit in that courthouse.”
Ventura is a microcosm of the difficulty faced by all 58 local court systems up and down California. While the chief justice, bar organizations and the administrative office have lobbied the Legislature for an amelioration of the cuts, they have not been successful.
“The governor is not going to give us the budget,” he said. “For the future it doesn’t look good. It’s going to get worse before it gets better.”
Like many of the state’s courts, Ventura Superior is facing a multi-million-dollar budget deficit. Under the budget act signed by the governor last week, the courts can cover those deficits by using money from funds they have set aside in years past as reserves. But two years from now, those funds will be swept into one central pot to be doled out to courts for emergencies.
Dukes in Los Angeles said many courts’ financial forecasts are so bleak that there may not be any fund balances left in two years. “There’s not a lot of liquid funds like a pot of money in a bank account.”
Dukes noted that Ventura’s solution underscores a key weakness in statewide funding. Counties are more inclined to help the local courts, he said, as they are more familiar with needs of local residents.
“The counties have the same constituency as the trial court judges,” said Dukies. “They know the needs of their citizens. The county and the judges working together can address the problems within their counties. When everyone is brought down to the same common denominator, it’s no good.”
“If certain people have their way,” he continued, “we’d have one courthouse downtown with 500 courtrooms.”
Dukes said that while one courthouse would be more efficient for the state, it would be disastrous for people living in far-flung parts of the county.
In Ventura, O’Neill said he believed other counties may start to look locally for funding as judges up and down the state grapple with how to absorb this year’s $285 million in additional cuts to the courts.
“We don’t expect to set a precedent for long-term, as the state still needs to come up with the money to fund the courts,” he said. “I believe it to be unique, at least so far. I wouldn’t be surprised if some counties make a similar effort.”
http://www.courthousenews.com/2012/07/05/48112.htm
Long live the ACJ.
disgusted
July 5, 2012
“In a teleconference last week, one reporter asked the chief justice whether courts are better off going back to county funding.
“Absolutely not,” she replied. “Trial court funding was a genius act by chief justice Ron George.”
priceless in more ways than one!
unionman575
July 5, 2012
“Dee dee dee”…Here you go Tani:
http://www.comedycentral.com/video-clips/ywukry/mind-of-mencia-dee-dee-dee-song
wearyant
July 5, 2012
The long-time AOC cheerleaders in Ventura are breaking rank? Wow. Woke up and started smelling the coffee, did they? The judges, that is. I’m sure Mikey Planet on the dark side of the building is still true blue to the black hats and looking for his reward. Gonna slip another trailer bill in that invokes pjs be selected by the jc?
courtflea
July 5, 2012
qui disgusted, an excellent analogy. the AOC is also force feeding the courts with their BS from the deathstar.
courtflea
July 5, 2012
I tell ya, rats on a sinking ship. so what’s new? don’t think Mikey has been on the good ole boy list for a while.
wearyant
July 6, 2012
Flea, referring to Roddy or Planet? They both appear to have their place secured in AOC heaven …
Lando
July 5, 2012
Did I read that right ? Per our Chief Justice , ” Trial court funding was a genius act by Chief Justice Ronald George” I am not sure what a genius act is exactly but it certainly wasn’t trial court funding. Before Ronald George showed up, no part of our branch of government ever wasted a half billion dollars on an unnecessary case management system . Before state court trial funding, no court anywhere in California was shut down one day a week and its workers placed on paid furlough. Prior to Ronald George and Bill V the AOC had a few hundred employees rather than the BLOATED staff that patrols of the dark hallways of 455 Golden Gate including ” scholars in residence” , consultants, and lawyers that live outside of California including in Europe. A “genius act ” indeed. The result of this “genius act” ? Layoffs of loyal courthouse employees all over the state, closures of courthouses close to the public, firings of Court Commissioners , radically reduced services to the public with more reductions to come. Ronald George’s actions were not a ” genius act” they were the actions motivated by a desire to control all and build an insular anti-democratic empire that he would control. Now our current Chief Justice continues to blunder by supporting Ronald George’s now repudiated vision for the courts rather than take and accept the SEC report she commissioned to reform and heal the branch so we could try and effectively serve the citizens of California. We need to democratize the Judicial Council and recall the Chief Justice .
JusticeCalifornia
July 6, 2012
I do not think the funding is the root of the problem.
I think it is the insular, handpicked you-scratch-my- back- I-will-scratch-yours nature of the current leadership structure, and decades-long you-scratch-my- back- I-will-scratch-yours culture and practices of top leadership itself, that have been and continue to be the problem.
The branch needs a new democratic leadership structure that never again allows an unqualified group of handpicke d individuals to run the branch into the ground. THIS MUST BE A BRANCH PRIORITY. And of course—this is so obvious– the branch needs new, qualified, credible, respected, ethical leadership that can build bridges, not burn them, and bring the branch together rather than tear it apart.
anna
July 6, 2012
Bravo!! However, than just democratizing the JC and recall the CJ, some of the cretins need to go to jail!!!
Wendy Darling
July 5, 2012
New entry for Delilah’s Dictionary for all things AOC: “genius act” = wasting half a billion dollars on an unnecessary case management system and statewide court closures.
As the current Chief Justice believes this result to be a “genius act” it’s no wonder the branch is in such trouble, and branch “leadership” in such disgrace and utterly lacking any credibility.
“Genius act” — the branch is doomed.
Long live the ACJ.
wearyant
July 6, 2012
In some circles I suppose Doctor Frankenstein was considered a genius too … I offer this as a second choice of definitions in Delilah’s dictionary. 😉
Judicial Council Watcher
July 5, 2012
455 Golden Gate is on the southwestern edge of the tenderloin. Some have theorized that it’s the crack fumes wafting into the building from the surrounding neighborhood that has caused some of this delusional thought.
Wendy Darling
July 5, 2012
There just might be something to that theory, JCW.
Dan Dydzak
July 6, 2012
While courts are being closed, court reporters not used and losing income and union workers laid off or having hours reduced, the present CJ claims that R. George was or is a “genius”.
The receivership motion has been filed in Orange County Superior Court before the Honorable Judge Munoz and is set for hearing on August 9, 2012. Part of the allegations in Motion, per sources, is that CJ Tani Cantil-Sakauye money-laundering to offshore accounts through former Marcos money-manager or investment advisor based in Beverly Hills.
Recent info, according to sources: R. George, Eric George, family trust have following multimilllion dollar assets: (1) 3 houses in Beverly Hills; (2) Expensive Nob Hill condo; (3) Multimillion Dollar Malibu beach pad. New info– LARGE YACHT (Mark Dreier, now in jail and the Bernie Madoff-Ponzi Scheme partner Eric M. George used to work with, also had a yacht which was seized by U.S. government when Dreier indicted). Dreier accused and convicted of stealing 300 MillionDollars from former clients–6O Minutes had feature on him). Attorney General Kamala Harris–whose personal working office is in the AOC building–refuses to indict or prosecute anyone to date for conversion of AOC and other funds by Vickrey and others. It would seem there is enough credible evidence out there to warrant criminal prosecutions or at least reparations and return of converted government funds by those responsible for the conversion.
Now, people out there, do the math. How does R. George have such multimillion assets when he lived by and large, allegedly on a judge’s and former D.A.’s salary, with children to put through school and a wife to support? How did he get so much money, where from, and why does he and the present CJ need a Geneva-based attorney?
By the way, R. Overholt and Vickrey were mailed copies of the receivership motion and a disqualificaton motion of Kamala Harris and her office–the package was returned with the notation, “Return to Sender”. Now I don’t know who wrote that annotation but I can guess.
Judicial Council Watcher continues to do their job of disseminating information and valid viewpoints. As well, the Alliance Judges continue to point out important issues along with many media sources.
Michael Paul
July 6, 2012
Good luck. Hopefully you manage to find a judge who believes that it is necessary for the good of the branch to permit discovery and a thorough audit of the AOC and their vendors. (I’ll be more than happy to supply you a comprehensive list of where I strongly suspect the graft and kickbacks are coming from)
If you review the dealings of my previous attorneys in San Francisco Superior Court, the court took the view that all had been cured and that the AOC was no longer wasting money and therefore no discovery would be permitted to look at the AOC’s files to confirm what they were telling the court was the truth.
That did a great injustice to the branch and the branch is paying for it now.
Maybe you’ll have a judge that seriously considers your proposal
The OBT
July 6, 2012
To refer to former CJ Ron George as a genius , in light of what has happened to the California court system is the ultimate proof that our branch leadership is tone deaf, out of touch with the reality and insular , failing to see what damage CJ George’s policies have brought to the trial courts , their employees and the public. The current Chief Justice needs to drive to Fresno and see the vacated outlaying court buildings in Clovis or Firebaugh. Maybe she could fly coach to LA and meet with the nearly 300 recently laid off employees .She could finish her tour of damaged California courts by stopping by the San Francisco Superior Court and chat with the numerous Court Commissioners who have lost their jobs. This Chief Justice is so out of touch with what is going on around her that she is burying the very SEC report that she commissioned and ignoring the many changes it recommends for fixing the mess that the ” genius ” Ronald George and his supporters like J Huffman and Bill Vickrey created.This Chief Justice will never come out of the Tower and support meaningful reform and change.She will never understand her role is not to support the “legacy ” of Ronald George but to serve the citizens of California. Nothing at 455 Golden Gate will ever really be changed until and unless our current Chief Justice is recalled.
anna
July 6, 2012
Huffman, needs to be indicted and in jail. What a criminal.
unionman575
July 6, 2012
AOC “Roach Motel” lease in Merced:
Dan Dydzak
July 6, 2012
FY1, the filed receivership motion can be found on Leslie Brodie Report. The disqualification motion of Ms. Harris is not coming up but may be reposted.
Judicial Council Watcher
July 6, 2012
Mr. Dydzak, word from above will have us posting your materials this weekend here on JCW.
courtflea
July 6, 2012
weary ant i refered to Mikey P….roddy is still in the running and if i was a betting flea, he will win the direktorship.
courtflea
July 6, 2012
JCW, where is the private message window? under whistleblower? I may be blind so if you can direct me…thanks.
Judicial Council Watcher
July 6, 2012
Courtflea: There is a link to the private message window in this post above. You can always reach a private message window link by going to the “about and privacy” page which is in the menu way at the top. There are several links on that page.
wearyant
July 6, 2012
Hi Flea, hope you’re feeling well today. Yeah, I suspected Roddy, the infamous Roddy, as he described himself at a legislative subcommittee hearing last year, I believe it was.
I’m wondering if Clark Kelso is being considered. In my view there are many ethical considerations not to appoint him, but ethics aren’t important to those in power apparently.
I wish we could start an office pool on this question … it might be a wee bit unwieldly online.
unionman575
July 6, 2012
I am putting my money on the former AOC Money Man and current San Bernardino SC CEO Steve Nash. His financial slight of hand might come in handy for Tani & crew now that they have their new “handcuffs” on.
🙂
Judicial Council Watcher
July 6, 2012
We concur.
Edited to add: Our belief is that much of the financial – let’s just call it wizardry – though they called it something different in Bell – happened under Mr. Nash’s watch. Bringing him back would keep the loop closed.
unionman575
July 6, 2012
🙂
Judicial Council Watcher
July 6, 2012
Just arrived in our private message window:
(slightly edited to be unrecognizable to those familiar with the writing style…)
Did you know that Cindy Nash, Steve Nash’s wife landed a cushy job with the Supreme Court and that Cindy and the kids have been staying in San Francisco while Steve is the hyper-commuting CEO of San Bernardino? There may be more truth to your speculation that you realize.
I have an idea. Why doesn’t Yamasaki go to San Bernardino with a hundred and fifty thousand dollar cut in pay ? 🙂 He can be a hundred miles away from home.
unionman575
July 6, 2012
I knew about his family that’s one reason I put my money on the money man Steve Nash.
:).
unionman575
July 6, 2012
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cynthia-nash/24/993/612
Cynthia Nash
Judicial Lead Secretary at Supreme Court of California
San Francisco Bay Area Writing and Editing
JusticeCalifornia
July 6, 2012
I do not think it will be Nash. His embarrassing JC meltdown under simple and direct questioning about CCMS by Judge Pines would make him and the AOC the laughingstock of everyone he dealt with, and put another nail in Tani’s already nailridden professional coffin. Plus, the fact that his wife works for the branch would stink to high heaven of backdoor deals and nepotism.
unionman575
July 6, 2012
It’s all about the Money.
Wendy Darling
July 6, 2012
Oh, that’s just great. More recycling of the same compromised, unethical, “Team George” players. When, if ever, will the Office of the Chief Justice figure out that at some point it’s not recycling — it’s just plain garbage?
Long live the ACJ.
Judicial Council Watcher
July 6, 2012
So we’re here chatting about it – and we think Delila’s Dictionary should become its own page (ideally maintained by delila if she’s interested, if not our mods can maintain it)
unionman575
July 6, 2012
“Do it”.
🙂
Wendy Darling
July 6, 2012
I second that recommendation. All in favor say “aye.”
JusticeCalifornia
July 6, 2012
aye!
wearyant
July 6, 2012
Aye! And I’ll volunteer to assist. Would love it!
Michael Paul
July 6, 2012
aye. Lets see if Delilah bites. 🙂
Peppermint Pattie
July 7, 2012
Aye.
Wendy Darling
July 7, 2012
Delilah never bites, but she excels at nibbling with a very sharp wit and a good sense of humor.
Long live the ACJ.
Delilah
July 7, 2012
You are all too kind (blushing). Don’t know if I’m up to the honor or the task, but I’ll give it a go with the offered help from Ant and others, and instructions and guidance from JCW. And I believe Ant and Wendy have already added a few entries of their own.
And, Ant, I know you and Wendy know the difference between the appropriateness of jammies vs. business suits, but, believe me, I have some coworkers that are so incensed and disgusted at the AOC, (and our own court in particular), I’m afraid the ones already laid off, who might feel they have nothing to lose, might want to go over to the SEC public comments and start dropping F bombs all over the place. Don’t we all? Just a reminder to them that JCW is the place for true freedom of speech, as Unionman and Flea so well already know 🙂
Judicial Council Watcher
July 7, 2012
Wonderful news! We’ll get everything set up and contact you shortly.
Michael Paul
July 7, 2012
She bit! Imagine that. Yay!
Alan Ernesto Phillips
July 7, 2012
Hear, HEAR!!
unionman575
July 6, 2012
Cindy Nash – see her salary here and NOTE there is EXACTLY one person holding her job title…
Judicial Lead Secretary at Supreme Court of California
San Francisco Bay Area Writing and Editing
Steve Nash is “coming home” to the Death Star as its Director, mark my words.
🙂
Been There
July 6, 2012
Once again, Unionman, you are amazing! If you are correct, and it looks like you most certainly are, I have to believe people at 455 Golden Gate will be ticked that Unionman and JCW were the first to break the news!
Makes them wonder what else you and JCW know! 🙂 🙂
Judicial Council Watcher
July 6, 2012
He better be wearing nomex suits as the flames from this side of the house will never die until he is replaced. Keep in mind – Mr. Nash is one of the few people who made it all the way into digital purgatory here at JCW.
JusticeCalifornia
July 6, 2012
Agreed JCW, he would be a walking target. That is why I do not believe that, even after all we have seen, Tani would be that dumb.
If she is, well, I once optimistically supported her, but just posted for my first time here:
https://recalltani.wordpress.com/2011/06/02/the-case-against-californias-chief-justice/#comment-3
Wendy Darling
July 6, 2012
Just remember, Justice California: Ask yourself what is the worst possible decision the Chief Justice and the Judicial Council could make, and in all probability, that will be the decision they will make.
Long live the ACJ.
Michael Paul
July 6, 2012
Um, can I second that?
JusticeCalifornia
July 6, 2012
LOL you two
Let’s see.
unionman575
July 6, 2012
Here Steve I went Christmas shopping early just for you. You are gonna need this:
unionman575
July 6, 2012
This one goes out to you Steve Nash:
JusticeCalifornia
July 6, 2012
I am am admitted Pollyanna optimist, and must disagree with you naysayers.
Sakauye simply cannot afford another tantrum or sidewinder trick or misstep or two or three or four or five or six. . . or seven or eight. .
And even if she herself thinks she can do whatever she wants to because she is “in” for 12 years. . . .(ummmm….. let’s see)
I do believe that the politically savvy amongst Sakauye’s past and/or current supporters– which include but are not limited to experienced political/legal players Steinberg and Dunn and Feuer – and interestingly also Brown and Harris– are VERY personally aware of branch corruption; are finally understanding (or will soon learn) that pretty much everyone who honors truth, justice and the American way is questioning the profound ethical and professional limitations of top leadership of the biggest judiciary in the Western World; and know (or will soon know) that what they do or say now will follow them for the rest of their days; . . . .(will other top members of the State Bar please take note? You are selling your clients and support base down the river as you encourage increased fees payable by the public, to fund top leadership excesses, while civil courts are closed, court reporters and jury trials are abolished, and other important services to the public like self-help centers are the first to go.)
History of the California branch is in the making, real time, right now.
unionman575
July 7, 2012
In an ideal world I would love to see Carlson, but Tani lives in her own little world where NOTHING makes sense to US.
It will be Nash.
unionman575
July 6, 2012
Love him or hate him, Nash is the only one with the financial “tools” Tani needs to “redirect” various funds to the Death Star. Watch it will be Nash.
Is he a good choice from a PR perspective? Hell no!
But his financial handiwork is now required at Death Star HQ by Tani.
It is what it is folks. Steve is coming home, ot his wife, his kids, and Tani & Co.
But keep in mind, my IQ is 10 1/2, same as my shoe size!
🙂
The OBT
July 7, 2012
since Bill V and Ron O have never left the crystal palace and since our Chief Justice seems more committed to preserving the “legacy” of Ronald George than in serving the public , it makes no difference who the new head of the AOC is. Terry Friedman.Patel , Roddy, Nash ,or the telecommuting lawyer from Switzerland, nothing will ever change at 455 Golden Gate until and unless the JC is democratized and the Chief Justice recalled.
Lando
July 7, 2012
I have a great idea. I nominate J Mc Connell to oversee the AOC. She is open minded, fair, has a perfect even handed demeanor and lots of experience in dealing in only the most positive way with all she presides over. She would certainly bring the same positive spirit to the 5th floor of the dark hallways of 455 Golden Gate that she brought to the penthouse .
Lando
July 7, 2012
Oh I left something out LOL.
Wendy Darling
July 7, 2012
You had me worried there for a second, Lando. Thought someone had slipped you some of the AOC Kool-Aid! 🙂
Guest
July 7, 2012
The “new” director of the AOC has been right in front of us all this time. It is Jody Patel. How long has the “recruitment” being going on? Hasn’t it been closed for a few months now? And no ” appointment”? Meanwhile Jody is running the place, has made all the organizational changes and even brought in her little dog Curt Soderlund to be her assistant. Doesn’t sound like the work of an “interim”. Jody is the de facto director. Any bets on how long Jody is the “interim director”? I’ll take the over, whatever you set it at.
unionman575
July 7, 2012
She’s out the Friday before Labor Day Monday. It will post that Nash is the new director after 7:30 p.m. that Friday night. Watch.
Res Ipsa Loquitor
July 7, 2012
Ahh, the signature “news release” late on a Friday before a 3-day weekend — the classic move of a political machine interested in releasing less than good news and hoping it will be buried by all the picnic/traffic/weather/Tom&*Katie (or whatever) assiduously covered by the MSM.
Q Does this mean/could this mean that Mssrs. Vickrey and Overholt will also leave the building by that weekend — or to they still have some pension spiking to take care of?
Q Will Jody likewise remain in the building following the selection of her successor? Maybe see and her loyal assistant also need some pension spiking.
unionman575
July 7, 2012
Prediction: Nash will “dispatch” both Jody and Curt quickly out the door (you can call it a “retirement” or whatever you want).
🙂
Been There
July 7, 2012
Unionman, do you think the new AOC director will likewise have the good sense to see Vickrey and Overholt to the door? Finally?
Someone posted that Jody wanted to show them the door but Fritz was protecting them. Surely Jody could tell HR — or whatever it is called now — to simply process the paperwork to take them off the payroll. Not much Fritz can do about that, unless he wants to put them on his payroll!
Lando
July 7, 2012
Thanks Wendy. Over the years I think they have tried to slip that Kool-Aid to me but somehow something in me always woke me up before it took effect. I realized ultimately when they took over CJA with Terry Friedman , when they tried to slip that trailer bill through that would have allowed them to pick Presiding Judges and CEOs, and when they started wasting multi millions on CCMS that something was a tad askew at 455 Golden Gate.
HRH 1’s court closures sealed my view that the JC/AOC had become an arrogant dysfunctional and anti democratic group seeking only to preserve its power at the expense of the trial courts and public. At the same time the CJP led by J MCConnell who HRH 1 installed , started to spin out of control manifesting an autocratic and arbitrary rule that only now is being exposed. Have a good weekend everyone.
JusticeCalifornia
July 7, 2012
The JC wouldn’t adopt a single SEC recommendation about changes to the AOC at the last meeting on the theory that any and all interested others should have the right to comment on the proposed changes first.
The biggest upcoming change of all to the AOC is going to be choice of director. I assume the names of the top candidates will be revealed at the next JC meeting (If not, why not?), and that there will be a 30- day public comment period before a selection is made. . . . .
Runston maino
July 7, 2012
Many judges and justices have responded to the SEC survey as requested by the Chief Justice and Justice Miller.
I do not see many responses by others. I urge everyone who has an opinion about the SEC Report to respond by going to invitations@jud.ca.gov. Whether your comments are positive or negative or neutral is of no great import. What is of great import is that you give the Chief Justice the benefit of your thoughts. Please remember that your name will be published as part of the public record.
please remember.
Runston maino
July 7, 2012
Rats: It is “public record”. I could not proof the above as my address came up and interfered with my reading of the text.
Judicial Council Watcher
July 7, 2012
You can usually drop us a note and we’ll fix your post if you wish. Just let us know what you wish to change or delete. In this case, you spelled it out (literally) so we fixed it.
Michael Paul
July 7, 2012
Judge Maino: Try downloading and using Google Chrome. I had the problem you describe when using an older version of internet explorer.
courtflea
July 7, 2012
Unionman my friend, you assuming Nash wants to come back to his wife and kids. It would not be the first time an administrator left his home turf for greener pastures leaving the wifely and kiddies behind. I agree that Nash blew it and while he has some support out there, I believe Roddy has more and he does not have the baggage at the state level that is. If nash does come back the most it will be is Assitant Dirkector.I think your prediction would carry more weight if his wife came back from San Burdu to reset up the household.
While I am in the betting mood, Jody will retire and Curtsie, I just can’t imagine him without his mistress(?hummm…..) to tell him when to sit, peak, and roll over so I think he will retire as well. they are both plenty old enough….mmmeeeooowwww. Again, mark my words this is just another pension padding party as was the case with Chuckles, Patton, et al. I see them being AOC hall walkers along with the rest of the “retirees”.
Thanks Delihla for the honor of the recognition 🙂 Good luck with the posts!
unionman575
July 7, 2012
Roddy can’t do money shifts the way Nash can.
It’s all about the JC/AOC siphoning off funds for themsleves (now that they are wearing “handcuffs”). That’s the name of the game my friend. With huge budget cuts it is all about the money.
Roddy doesn’t know shit from shinola on finance – that is Nash’s game my man.
Nash’s wife was given that cushy job for a reason – Nash wants to return to SF. It’s all part of Nash’s deal. You will see.
But I still think like the Wall Street guy I once was back inthe 80’s before I entered public service. I do the best I can with an IQ of 10 1/2 (same as my shoe size).
🙂
courtflea
July 7, 2012
Ok Unionman my friend then i go back to my stand by bet: Nash becomes assistant so he can do what you suggest, Roddy becomes the face, the front, the one that can handle the tough situations in front of the legislature, the JC, etc. If I am wrong i owe ya a vodka tonic :-p
unionman575
July 7, 2012
I look forward to the vodka tonic.
🙂
unionman575
July 7, 2012
“Hot Rod” remains “buried at sea” in San Diego.
Nash was placed in San Bernardino and now he has CEO “experience”. He is good to go back as Director.
Remember “our” criteria are completely different than the Death Star’s criteria.
We want the best person for the Director job , someone like a Carlson type.
The Death Star has already tipped its hand via Tani’s comments that the AOC operations won’t feel the budget cut(s) at all. I have a feeling that is one reason JCW agreed with my tip of the hat to the finance wizard Nash. (Get me a bucket!)
The Death Star NEEDS Nash to shift money to it, and away from hard working guys like me in the trial courts.
I always “think” like my opponent. And, Tani & Co. are our opponents. (If they weren’t, none of us would be here seeking CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.
Wow! It’s tough and hard to swallow at times, but you gotta do it. Think like your enemy.
The Death Star needs CASH NOW via fund shifts that are highly complex,convoluted, and extermely hard to trace. That’s the Nash MO to a tee.
BRB gotta refill my drink.
:).
L.A. Observer
July 7, 2012
Won’t both Roddy and Nash need to take a cut in pay? Also, I think the Judicial Council and the CJ are having a hard time finding anyone who wants the job. It may not be that they necessarily want to give the job to any of the old guard. It just may be that those at the bottom of the barrel are the only ones who may even consider accepting the position.
unionman575
July 7, 2012
And here we are together on JCW ALL fighting the good fight Michael.
🙂
unionman575
July 7, 2012
A former AOC guy,, a trial court slumdog (me), and many others here on JCW. All fighting the good fight together.
LOL
🙂
Michael Paul
July 8, 2012
I think they will ultimately use the court executive officers current pay to justify a similar salary for the incoming director of the AOC. Just because the AOC advertises a rate doesn’t mean they stick to it. (raises my hand as living proof)
courtflea
July 7, 2012
LA Observer, if the AOC can put the CEO of SACTO court on their payroll so he could double dip, shuffle monies so courts don’t know where the money is going, spending 1/2 a B on CCMs without oversight don’t ya just think maybe just maybe, that they could fudge the salaries of the Dirkector? I don’t buy that bill V made less than any CEO in the state. Call me jaded but I am not sayin these guys are not the bottom of the barrel either.
L.A. Observer
July 7, 2012
Still. Has anybody heard of anyone decent who has applied or indicated an interest? I haven’t. Who in their right mind would want it? My major point remains. We are only going to get the bottom feeders — even if they pay them well. Sad.
Michael Paul
July 7, 2012
There are rumors floating around that 1) the new executive director has already been selected and that 2) that the new executive director is currently a court executive officer and that 3) This new executive director is staying with their court long enough to implement the new court budget before picking up and moving to the AOC.
One hears lots of rumors in my companies line of work.
Michael Paul
July 7, 2012
Oh, and I would love to be executive director of the AOC since I probably know better than most where to start the housecleaning.
Michael Paul
July 7, 2012
And gosh darn, I didn’t apply for executive director of the AOC because I have been waiting for them to recruit me for the position. After all, the AOC IT department has had seven headhunters try to recruit me since my, let’s say untimely departure from the AOC.
unionman575
July 7, 2012
Yeah they would like to pay you to shut you up Michael. Fuck ’em all @ the Death Star.
🙂
Michael Paul
July 7, 2012
What was that you whispered on the other side of the screen? Don’t hold my breath? Seven times in a 16 month period, a headhunter looking to fill consulting positions within the AOC IT department has contacted me about working for the AOC. After a few times, I started encouraging the recruiters to submit my resume to the AOC so they would know where the leak to their mythical hiring freeze was coming from. After awhile, I got bored with responding to AOC recruiters.
unionman575
July 7, 2012
Unlike THEM, Michael you have integrity. I respect you.
Michael Paul
July 7, 2012
They wouldn’t pay me to shut up. That opportunity sailed away when I dropped the case. I would have shut up if I detected an investigation. However, I detected instead a cover-up of epic proportions that ended up getting played out in the courts exactly as I had informed everyone it would.
unionman575
July 7, 2012
Sounds like Nash to me…hmm…
🙂
unionman575
July 7, 2012
Michael you have always been my number one selection for Director.
Shit we’ll need busses to haul away all the terminated AOC bosses.
LOL
🙂
Michael Paul
July 7, 2012
Can you imagine? Everyone’s problems would be solved in 30 days.
unionman575
July 7, 2012
Yeah you would take then ALL out fast.
When I said busses, I meant to say SF Sheriff busses to take them all to jail!
🙂
Michael Paul
July 7, 2012
The top two floors of the federal courthouse across the street is a federal prison. I’d feel better if they were walked across the street and I’m sure most of you would too.
unionman575
July 7, 2012
Nice!
unionman575
July 7, 2012
And this special tune goes out to Steve Nash based on what I have heard Steve, you are movin on up my man:
unionman575
July 7, 2012
Here are some other candidates, see if you can pick a winner.
🙂
unionman575
July 8, 2012
For those of you that need an “introduction” to Steve Nash & his “credentials”, I refer you to JCW’s very nice prior post:
https://judicialcouncilwatcher.wordpress.com/2011/06/15/aoc-director-under-fire-takes-a-ceo-job-in-san-bernardino/
unionman575
July 8, 2012
Steve now that you have wandered in the desert (San Bernardino) for a year, are you now coing home to the Death Star? I think you are and so does JCW.
🙂
courtflea
July 8, 2012
Ah Unionman/JCW, beware of being over confident. Don’t forget this flea has forseen many things that have come to pass. Plus I put my bet on the table, how about a bottle of Dom P. if I am right 🙂
LA Observer, I think in one of the past posts here someone listed the finalists for the direcktor. But you are correct, only a jerk off bottom feeder will fill the post because no person with any integrity would want the position, not to mention that ) along with ethics, morals, yada yada) it is not a criteria in the job spec.
Michael P, I am working on my comments to send you. I am trying to be objective, professional, diplomatic and not get pissed off, use bad language, etc.
One Who Knows
July 8, 2012
Flea and UnionMan –
Check out the Sacramento Bee’s salary page, it includes AOC staff wages. Search under Judicial Council to find them. It goes from highest to lowest wages and shows a few year history. In 2011 guess who was the highest paid AOC? Stevie Nash! He got a big fat bump on his way out to spike his pension. If my memory serves right, I think he got about a raise worth a $100,000. Plus, he got the plum CEO appointment in San Bernardino. Why is it a plum? Best pension system in the state. He got the big buy off for misappropriating funds and keeping his mouth shut. My bet is that he is not coming back to the AOC. It is too hot. Everyone in Sacramento knows Steve and what his role at the AOC was. He is not coming back because when the proverbial ‘shit hits the fan’ and indictments start the AOC/JC leadership can’t have the guy who did all of the illegal fund transfers sitting at the of the syndicate organizational chart. Even they are not that stupid. And even if they aren’t, Steve isn’t that stupid. He didn’t look good towards the end of his stint at the AOC and he was way stressed out. Why would he want to go back to hell? They can’t pay him more and it just reminds everyone that he was the guy who illegally moved money around.
Ps…. I may have my years wrong on the Sacramento Bee’s wage database – could be the last year of Steve’s noted wage was 2010 and not 2011. In any case, it is an interesting database to look at it.
Wendy Darling
July 8, 2012
“Even they are not that stupid. And even if they aren’t, Steve isn’t that stupid.”
Wanna bet?
“Stupid is as stupid does.” Forest Gump
And the Office of the Chief Justice, the Judicial Council, and the AOC, have done, and continue to do, alot of stupid things. Past behavior is usually a good indicator of future conduct. Accordingly, whatever the worst possible decision the Chief Justice, the Judicial Council, and the AOC could make — that is probably what they will do.
Long live the ACJ.
Been There
July 8, 2012
Interesting info on the 2011 salaries; the first page (highest salaries) includes names enrolled in Digital Purgatory. Coincidence.
And how/why is Laura Rigdon classified as a Court Services Analyst rather than an Executive Secretary (to Bill V.)? What court program or project does she serve? Or was the higher salary potential of an analyst classification a bonus for years of service?
Judicial Council Watcher
July 8, 2012
As far as Nash being selected (or not) we’re simply analyzing what the AOC needs from their side of the fence as opposed to what would be smart. They’ve managed to prove that their arrogance has no boundaries whatsoever and they really could care less of what anyone thinks about their decisions. If they can get away with the unlicensed contractor debacle and the CCMS debacle without a single person losing their job or paying any penalty whatsoever, they really don’t care what you, I or Sacramento thinks. They feel that OGA can provide them with whatever cover they need with Sacramento and what is anyone else going to do or say?
Res Ipsa Loquitor
July 8, 2012
Good point, JCW, but to follow this path the CJ must be forgetting (or does not care) that the Legislature is wise to her by now and is watching. Arrogance can only lead to further budget cuts; appointing Mr. Nash is a signal to the other two branches that the CJ plans on getting her $$$ for the AOC and the trial courts can be damned.
Fasten your seat belts, ladies and gentlemen, it’s going to be bumpy ride.
Wendy Darling
July 8, 2012
More than a few of us are going with “does not care.”
Long live the ACJ.
Judicial Council Watcher
July 8, 2012
It’s interesting you bring the issue of money up because there the CJ has been reliant on the trial courts pushing back on the legislature on her behalf. This last go around, the courts targeted the AOC and pushed through son of AB1208 and a few AOC budget cuts that will force more downsizing. On that note, we’re still waiting for the AOC to have a management reduction in force because the management to employee ratio, which was dismal to begin with is getting worse with contractors and line staff disappearing.
unionman575
July 8, 2012
The CJ does not care about me, you, the legislature, or PR. All she needs is some funds shifts to resume business as usual.
That’s her bottom line…she is very stupid as we all have seen and NOT getting any smarter.
unionman575
July 8, 2012
I agree JCW.
courtflea
July 8, 2012
Thank you one who knows for the very interesting and good points. I must admit however, that will be THE day when there are indictments or any type of charge coming down (much less a civil suit) on the AOC players. Bout the same odds of kissing a toad and it changing into a prince. I just heard a quote on the news just now that really describes the AOC: “the fish rots at the head”.
Michael Paul
July 14, 2012
For those of you who wish to submit a confidential comment about the SEC report, you have until midnight, Sunday night to send that comment to judicialcouncilwatcher@hushmail.com for me to include in my own comments. Thank You. 🙂
Judicial Council Watcher
July 15, 2012
We’re posting to highlight Mr. Paul’s above advisory regarding confidentially commenting to the SEC report. You can always use the private, untraceable message window at https://forms.hush.com/judicialcouncilwatcher and all information is optional.
If you do send an email to us, we will omit your email address from the comment. If you want to be on the record with your career on the line, feel free to comment to invitations@jud.ca.gov directly.
Edgardo
October 17, 2012
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