Formal Proceedings Initiated Against Former Justice William J. Murray, Jr. Over Judicial Delays
The controversy has also drawn attention to oversight mechanisms within the state judiciary.
The California Commission on Judicial Performance (CJP) has officially initiated formal disciplinary proceedings against retired Justice William J. Murray, Jr., formerly of the California Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District. The commission alleges that Murray failed to promptly adjudicate hundreds of cases over the course of nearly a decade, depriving litigants of timely justice and undermining confidence in the judicial system.
In a public statement, the CJP detailed that Justice Murray routinely violated the state constitutional mandate requiring appellate decisions to be issued within 90 days after submission. Some cases allegedly lingered for years—several exceeding seven years—with little to no explanation or progress.
Between 2018 and 2020, Murray authored only 37 opinions, significantly fewer than his peers. This dramatic slowdown followed two strokes he reportedly suffered in 2017.
Despite his health setbacks, Murray remained on the bench until his retirement in January 2022 at age 65, the threshold for full judicial retirement benefits.
The Commission’s notice cited "persistent and unjustified delay in performing judicial duties" and raised ethical concerns over Murray's continued service despite his known inability to manage his caseload. Critics argue this amounted to a dereliction of duty and a breach of public trust.
The controversy has also drawn attention to oversight mechanisms within the state judiciary. Former Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye has faced scrutiny for allegedly failing to report Murray’s incapacitation to the CJP, a decision some observers describe as a lapse in accountability.
The formal proceedings could result in a public admonishment, censure, or a recommendation to bar Murray from holding future judicial office. The CJP emphasized that its investigation is aimed at upholding the integrity of California’s appellate courts and ensuring the fair administration of justice.
Justice Murray has not publicly commented on the proceedings.
