Inquiry Concerning Trammell

*CJP Supp. 57 Opinion

This disciplinary matter concerns Judge George W. Trammell III (retired), formerly a judge of the Los Angeles County Superior Court. The proceedings arose from allegations that Judge Trammell entered into a clandestine intimate relationship with one of three codefendants, that he continued to preside over their cases, that he allowed that relationship to influence his actions and that he engaged in numerous improper ex parte communications. The Commission on Judicial Performance (Commission) concludes that Judge Trammell committed willful misconduct in office and conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice that brings the judicial office into disrepute. The Commission censures Judge Trammell and bars him from receiving assignments, appointments or reference of work from any California state court.

PROCEDURAL HISTORY

Judge Trammell served on the Los Angeles County Municipal Court from May 25, 1971, until January 31, 1988, and served on the Los Angeles County Superior Court from January 31, 1988, until January 10, 1997, when he retired.

*CJP Supp. 58 The Commission’s investigation of allegations concerning Judge Trammell led to the filing on…