"The Robing Room: CA State Judges

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Only items marked with (*) are averaged into the displayed overall rating.

General Rating Criteria

* Temperament		(1=Awful,10=Excellent)
* Scholarship		(1=Awful,10=Excellent)
* Industriousness		(1=Not at all industrious,10=Highly industrious)
* Ability to Handle Complex Litigation		(1=Awful,10=Excellent)
* Punctuality		(1=Chronically Late,10=Always on Time)
* General Ability to Handle Pre-Trial Matters		(1=Not all Able, 10=Extremely Able)
* General Ability as a Trial Judge		(1=Not all Able, 10=Extremely Able)
Flexibility In Scheduling		(1=Completely Inflexible,10=Very Flexible)

Criminal Rating Criteria (if applicable)

* Evenhandedness in Criminal Litigation		(1=Demonstrates Bias,10=Entirely Evenhanded)
General Inclination Regarding Bail		(1=Pro-Defense,10=Pro-Government)
Involvement in Plea Discussions		(1=Not at all Involved, 10=Very Involved)
General Inclination in Criminal Cases Pretrial Stage		(1=Pro-prosecution,10=Pro-defense)
General Inclination in Criminal Cases Trial Stage		(1=Pro-prosecution,10=Pro-defense)
General Inclination in Criminal Cases Sentencing Stage		(1=Pro-prosecution,10=Pro-defense)

Civil Rating Criteria (if applicable)

* Evenhandedness in Civil Litigation		(1=Not at all Evenhanded,10=Entirely Evenhanded)
Involvement in Settlement Discussions		(1=Not at all Involved,10=Very Involved)
General Inclination		(1=Pro-defendant, 10=Pro-plaintiff)

Comments

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What others have said about Hon. Shirley K Watkins

Comments

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA49190
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Does not remotely belong on the bench.

It's a systemic failure of the government putting her there, and specifically of the Judicial Branch not cleaning house when it has become clear she is incompetent and angry.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA48992
Rating:2.4

Comments:
Extremely rude and condescending to attorneys. Seems like she wakes up on the wrong side of the bed every morning, I feel really bad for her.

Other

Comment #: CA46820
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Before Watkins became a judge- unfortunately, she was a practicing trial atty. with specializing in medical mal practice. She appeared to be very aggressive both inside and outside the office. She brings this bad attitude to the courtroom and is extremely "ruff" towards the parties and not cerebral at all. I would highly suggest that if you by chance get assigned to this judge to get yourself a 170.6 immediately. Not a lot to choose from in Van Nuys. It's gone down hill rather quickly. It's a gathering point for bad judges. The good same ones want out.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA46751
Rating:1.0

Comments:
An embarrassment to the bench and a reflection of declining standards and morals in this country. They make a scummy, low ability, low level personal injury lawyer a Judge??

Litigant

Comment #: CA40910
Rating:1.0

Comments:
My name Christopher T. Barone. I wanted to update the situation regarding Shirley's expulsion of my Sister and niece. Watkins was compelled to issue a statement and I appreciate the fact she did because it exposes Shirly for who she really is. There is no happiness in knowing that she boldfaced lied about the exchange she had with my sister and then would double down by saying the record will validate her claims. Sadly, I am going ot believe that she could doctor the record because in case 20VECP00041 someone clearly took a chunk out of the reporters transcripts on appeal. Either way, given the dozens of unlawful decisions by Shirley it would be unwise to not protect yourself when in her courtroom. Thankfully my sister and niece were able to take great notes so great that if the record from the clerk is forged it will validate what many of us already know. I I sincerely hope that anyone left reading this take my advice because your life may depend on a accurate portrayal of events. Take the most accurate notes you can possibly take and make absolute certain those notes leave no doubt should anyone else need to see them. thectb@gmail.com

Other

Comment #: CA40824
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Revised: I am not a criminal defense attorney:
Mr. Christopher T. Barone is my name. I prefer to provide objective reviews under my real name. Today, transparency is uncommon, and nowhere is tyranny more prevalent than in the courtroom of Shirley K. Watkins, Department T, Van Nuys East. Shirly has sealed the courtroom without providing adequate notice to hear arguments. Shirley proceeded to ban court call users, including the four of us, but stated that we were welcome to attend court and observe the proceedings. My sister and niece attended court proceedings as observers. Watkins repeatedly asked them if they were recording. Given the posted signs, it's odd that she needed to ask twice. I have no problem with a judge questioning the public once, but three times? It will not work to intimidate my Sister when you are the size of a smurf. So, following lunch, Shirley inquired of my sister and niece if they were "related to Christopher Barone" My Sister replied in kind not rude "Why are you asking"... Watkins proceeded to inform my sister that she did not like her response, so she immediately ejected them from the courtroom. Shirley's modus operandi has long been oppression. She must be documented and imprisoned for violating the rights of so many individuals. It's sad to consider how far Shirley can violate our rights. Please contact me at thectb@gmail.com.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA39477
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
I have watched these comments for a while it is obvious that there is someone who monitors this website. Anyone who gives her a rating of 10 or anything close to that is a plant. So the criminal defense lawyer is exactly right CA36959 is not someone who has appeared before her.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA36959
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
I do not agree with comment No CA 36939 - Governor Brown would be ashamed of her appointment - She is degrading the integrity of the judicial system. I believe comment CA 36939 is placed by someone on her behalf to save her face from all these true comments

Litigant

Comment #: CA36939
Rating:10.0

Comments:
She was fair to both parties. She did not focus on minor procedural issues and instead looked at the issues to hand. She got the hearing done 3 months ahead of schedule. She did not exceed her authority to try and bring her own views into the picture, so much so that I have no idea what her political views are. She did her job and she did it well. I see that Governor Brown appointed her. He would be happy with her work.

Other

Comment #: CA35645
Rating:2.0

Comments:
This is a very dangerous Judge to have seated on the bench in America today. Our very basic rights of due process are at risk based on her biased opinions. She appears at times to listen then states something completely off the topic being addressed. She appears to play favorites with counsel, and ignores their obvious errors. She states comments about people’s character she doesn’t get any facts for. She ignores evidence presented and dismisses it if it does not fit her narrative. She assigns penalties randomly leaving both parties questioning her sound abilities. She postponed court dates beyond reasonable amounts of time.
She wrote a very child-like judgement that sounded as if a high school girl with a grudge wrote it, instead of a public official giving a legal conclusion.
It is truly an educational experience in the decline of American Justice once you partake in any proceedings with Judge Shirley Watkins. On so many levels we have fallen and will continue to everyday while she remains on the bench and these similar practices are in place.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA35388
Rating:2.1

Comments:
What a horrible attitude. Very condescending in the way she addresses parties. Very rude and needlessly strict in enforcing her sense of etiquette and in controlling her courtroom.

Litigant

Comment #: CA34958
Rating:1.0

Comments:
[Redacted by Editor] Watkins fails in almost every facet of pre-trial hearing and motions to even understand the case and details of the case. It's frustrating to hear a judge make comments about your case but you can't interrupt her because you know she must be talking about a different case. Most concerning is her arrogance when she is politely shown where she has errored. I feel awful for anyone who has to stand before this shallow and angry woman because she can be very ugly and condescending.

Other

Comment #: CA34232
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
This awful excuse for a judge MUST be removed from the bench. She's extremely sexiest, doesn't read the paperwork in front of her and is just a nasty piece of work. Said, in court in front of my parents who sat behind me in support that I was either a bad mother or a liar! I am the BEST mother on the planet and always put my children first. My ex wanted more custody now that our son is older but our son did not want to be with his looser father who has no idea how to be a role model or a parent. Watkins is a judge who is suppose to see through the lawyers bs because she was one herself, instead she gives you nasty looks, says god awful things to you in court (TRYING to get under your skin to see if you blow up). I've learned that if the opposing side is willing to perjure themselves you will have an up hill battle. This is family court and she's ruining our children's lives because of her own self loathing. I never have ill will towards anyone that has done me wrong, but this poor excuse for a human needs to in jail for her actions. I don't know how she sleeps at night. My case was a few years ago but the trauma she has caused in my life still gives me anxiety and nightmares.
I was able to ask for another judge last year and finally got a fair trial.
Only thing we have to deal with now is the Covid crap. Judges are so backed up they won't even read your case if it's a lot of paperwork. But, they'll rule! Our system really needs an overhaul, but unfortunately it seems our American rights and votes are face down in the dirt these days. Again, Watkins must be removed from the bench. Vote her OUT in 2022!!!!

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA34228
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Am I real? You might be a little slow on the uptake but you are like a deer in headlights. I understand. I stand by everything I said about Advocate Watkins and last check, I still have my 1st amendment rights. Go check out my youtube channel. What's odd is the fact so many people are willing to allow these [Redacgted by Edotor] to ruin our lives with zero consequences. Not gonna happen. I owe an apology to all those people who told be how [redacted] our courts were and I wouldn't believe them. I spent years of my life living in other countries some would consider a couple of them the 3rd world variety...this is just as bad if not worse given the totality and reality of the situation.
What I am so excited to see is how petty and small minded you must be. You see communists/liberals like you would pay more attention and be more fake-offended to the words I type here than the constitutional rights of people like me being denied.
I will give you this: I am a proud Husband and Father of 3, a US Marine, a protector and servant and while you can construe whatever I say as patting myself on the back just remember this: I look in the mirror and I see a person who loves more than I hate, I volunteer to help because I believe helping others... I on the otherhand will continue to fight for justice, a justice I never knew could be so perverted and so in your face. Yet here you are coming after little ol pro per/se me. I have law firms and judges who have forgotten more about that law than I will ever know and yet here I am, so desperate I post on this site to let others know, we have no right to give up and give in to tyranny. You have my information do take a look at my cases and when you see what's going on just imagine if it was you or someone you cared about. You keep typing and sounding foolish, I will keep fighting.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA34222
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I appreciate the anonymous comment from CA34217 and the strong personal attacks. I am a civil litigator who who is civilly ligitaged 2 cases in appellate court and and about 5 active cases in the LA Superior Court. As soon as the "sexist" and "racist" cards get laid out for all to see, it means the facts are too difficult to address.

[Redacted by Ed.]

I am not an attorney, you can tell because I can speak openly and honestly and not worry one iota about the repercussions of future work in the court system. My name is Chris Barone and I live on 5523 Old Salt Ln. in Agoura Hills. My cell is 818-661-9721 and my email is thectb@yahoo.com

No false flag needed. Inside information? Perhaps but it just takes patience (about 2 and a half years), motivation, and desire to "do the right thing". You stay hiding and keep using your words I know people like you, it's the smart thing to do.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA34213
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I don't like being anonymous because I feel people tend to embellish more when they have less of a chance to held accountable. So my name is Chris B. and you can believe that when this review is done Judge Shirley K. Watkins and a few others know it's me.
Advocate Watkins is a dirty, nasty, bitter old hag. Now that the personality traits have been disclosed she is also a the most arrogant and disrespectful judge I have had the displeasure of knowing. Traber, Riff, Epstein, Lipner, Walmark...all dirty and all bought and paid for but not with moey per se, with what I refer to as Judicial Equity. You see, if you get Bar Association-popular like, Beverly Hills Bar and San Fernando Valley Bar rich you are gaining serious Judicial Equity, that stuff is to be proud of. You get the DA to come to the awards banquet, you every meaningful "presiding judge" to come, you get the best of the retired judges to come out of their hibernation and you get Rock Star Status for the night. Look and see who attends, that will tell you the kind of pull they have. Look for the sponsors and take notes. These sponsors are often "fronts" for other law firms who know better than to sponsor the awards banquet of the Judge working on their $15,000,000 defamation case. If you pay close attention and do the work, research and investigating, you see law firm influencers and those that hide behind them.
What the deal with Watkins? She has been trying so hard to build that equity that she got desperate, it might be because of her inability to manage money or it might be because she feel unfulfilled with what she has. What is certain is this: in one of my several cases with her, she not only misinterpreted the law over a dozen times, she went so far as to overestimate her equity and underestimate other people's and as of March 2021, she is about to get herself and all 5'1" of her put in a sling. She simply has gone too far and will not recover, don't get me wrong her BFF's at the courthouse will protect her but even they will have to risk their own neck if they go too far. She tried advocating so bad she went full monte on my cases, intimidating other attorneys and failing to intimidate me. By doing so she had to cover for her missteps and not ruching into filing writs and watching how she tries to stall appeals really exposed her. She is highly reviewed and hated for a reason, she doesn't know the law very well, she rules based on her beliefs not on the facts and her arrogance is about to hem her up.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA33741
Rating:1.0

Comments:
There cannot possibly be a positive review for this terrible battle-axe of a Judge. It is clear she does not physically take care of herself, and this translates directly to her conduct on the bench. She is vindicative, cruel, prejudicial (in that she prejudges every case before her). She is rude, crude and has a terrible demenaor towards the public and towards the law. She is a disgrace to the bench and humanity.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA33538
Rating:1.0

Comments:
She obviously gave a huge amount of money to Jerry Browns Super Pac. The positive comments are probably written by a PR firm. She is up for reelection in 2022 and needs to go.

CONVEY is a fair judge. She gives Manny Real and Percy Andersen a good name.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA33003
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I am not sure what comment No CA32954 is referring to. She is the worst Judge ever. Extremely bias. Extremely Ignorant. Lacks confidence.
Has low self-esteem when she sees an accomplished female in her courtroom. I believe this comment was either made by her relative or someone who knows her trying to save her face from all these comments that say nothing but the truth. If I could her anything less that O stars I would - SHE NEEDS TO BE REMOVED FROM THE BENCH - A DISGRACE TO THE JUDICIAL SYSTEM

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA32954
Rating:9.4

Comments:
I simply cannot understand the negative ratings for Judge Watkins! In my dealings with her, she has been very pleasant with all who come before her, patient and helpful with self-represented parties and just a pleasure to deal with. She is very intelligent and industrious and, if she doesn't know a particular area of the law, she will take the matter under submission and study the issue. I think you'd be pleased to have a civil or commercial case assigned to her.

Other

Comment #: CA32948
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Hon Shirley Watkins took over my case after Hon Michael Convey and he made decisions that had devastatingly torn my kids apart. I was awarded a max RO by Hon Convey and ordered 50/50 w/me as primary custodial of our children over their homeless father. Within a yeAr’s time, Watkins gave their abusive father 50% physical custody while their father was homeless, this subjecting our kids to reside from motel to motel. Hon Convey had previously ordered no overnights with father until he has retained permanent housing yet Watkins enforced overnights. After several child abuse accusations by father against me and my current husband, Watkins saw fit to order “a no contact” order against my current husband while on the other hand saying in court (as noted in transcripts) that she recognized my current husband has taken on a surrogate father role with our kids during the 7 yr absence of their biological father. Utterly most devastatingly enough, Hon Watkins also ordered me to co-parent with my abuser. Taking my ordered Hi-Conflict Co-Parenting classes seems so minute compared to being ordered to co-parent with my abuse. Despite my ex’s multiple child abuse allegations against me and my husband which resulted into several litigations of child custody, Hon Watkins continued to order me to take classes yet no consequences imposed on my ex for having to willfully have filed false child abuse allegations against me in her court room. My girls are forever scarred and traumatized as a result of her forcing me to co-parent with my abuser. On top of that, Hon Watkins still granted me an additional 5 year extension to my RO against my ex. I don’t think there’s anything else that can be done to fix the lasting damage she has done to my family, my kids. However, I hope that enough pressure is placed on her by her superiors to step down or resign as family law judge so that no more families be destroyed by her inexperienced, biased and illogical and devastating practices of ruling.

Other

Comment #: CA32947
Rating:1.0

Comments:
She is the worst Judge that department has had. She believes she is God doesn't reason and she always seems to have made up her mind before even listening or even reading the evidence. she is bias always goes on the Males side. In my opinion I believe she has some sort of trauma that makes it seem that she dislikes females overall. Someone needs to remove her, because her arrogance and bias ways are putting in danger our kids. children need a better Judge. On the other hand, Judge Michael Convey... he really does care about children's well being and always listens to both parties.

Other

Comment #: CA32504
Rating:1.0

Comments:
If there were to be a negative rating i would be gibing her that. So Been 1 the worst is what my rating is. She is very bias. She is very very unprofessional, she thinks she knows everything. But over all shes lacks judgement. Children are in danger. So take your case somewhere else let it be heard by a real judge not a bias, unprofessional, arrogant,stupid "judge" like her. I truly believe she is racist against latin females. There was a case before mine, where the father didnt have a place of its own, had no stable job and was a drunk and used drugs. The mother said i beed to protect my kids, he cant take him dor now where are they going to spend the night,if he takes them? So Watkins says, "that doesn't matter, kids need to also be with their father." So she gave full custody to the dad and took the custody from mom. Because according to her she was prohibiting for the children to have relationship with their father. I couldn't believe it!
Some one needs to help remove her from the bench.

Litigant

Comment #: CA32225
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Vicious, unhinged and stupid. God help you if you land in her court. She is unworthy of being on the bench...

Litigant

Comment #: CA31607
Rating:1.0

Comments:
She doesn't like females either, trust me. A misanthrope.

Litigant

Comment #: CA31341
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Judge Watkins is a feminist. If you are female, you are locking into a favorable decision. If you are male, CCP 170 immediately. When the head of DCFS states verbally that she has cause havoc in the Van Nuys Family Courts, you know something serious is wrong.....
Good luck!

Court Staff

Comment #: CA31247
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Let's be clear -- Watkins is the worst judge anyone has ever seen and a liar, absolutely. And if the Judicial Branch of Government cannot police itself any better than the bad police departments, which are in the minority of police deparements, bu they exist -- if the Judicial Branch cannot police itself, the people will and that may effect 200 or more jurists instead of just this complete train wreck. Do you know she had abysmal LSAT scores, went to a very sub par law school as that's what would accept her, then apparently was fired from her job and couldn't find one for a year or 2, applied for everything available including being a Judge, finally got one, but then a couple weeks later her judicial application came through. She's a complete train wreck and the governors have little idea what to look for in judges or how to select for judges. This nut job couldn't even find a job for upwards of 2 years as nobody wanted her, but then a very poor Judicial Branch got her from the Executive Branch -- taking out the garbage and it landed in Van Nuys Courthouse. If the Judicial Branch won't police itself it very likely won't like how that is going to work out. This judge doesn't know the law, doesn't know how to look it up, just makes the law up, lies about the law, facts and things which have happened in court. Look at what this judge's own clients have had to say about her, and problems with her own child(ren). Shirley K. Watkins is an absolute train wreck. This discarded piece of garbage with no heart and no analytical reasoning ability, still very mad at the white lawyer who fired her leaving her jobless for a couple years -- this discarded piece of garbage should not have gotten into the law in the first place. Watkins is a train wreck. Smart people's discarded garbage should not become California Judges. There needs to be a massive systemic shift and change in the California Judicial Branch if it cannot police itself and deal with Shirley K. Watkins. And the Executive Branch needs to figure out what it's doing as well. Maybe Governor Newsom is better. Let's hope he's paying attention. Far too little attention and scrutiny is given to Judicial Appointments and the Executive Branch doesn't even know what it should be looking for or testing for. Shirley K. Watkins needs to go back to unemployment -- back to the trash heap where she was discarded and thrown to before she was appointed Judge --a huge mistake.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA26280
Rating:7.7

Comments:
I have been before this judge twice. The first time, I got an unfavorable ruling, but was impressed that she researched the topic and took pains to explain her decision (which ultimately I had to admit was correct). The second time was another unfavorable, and it seemed like she just didn't get the issues. Overall, she seems to have a good temperament and is thoughtful. Her legal knowledge didn't seem impressively deep, though I've appeared before judges who know less. Having read her reviews here I felt she is getting kind of a bad rap, so I thought I'd chime in. That said, I did 170 her on a third case (which was a complex matter I didn't think would fare well in her courtroom). Overall, I think she is a decent human being with a moral compass. Having been before judges I consider lying scum, I'd say one can do far worse than Shirley Watkins.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA26240
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
I have great sympathy with commenter CA25809. So sorry that you had to endure Watkins. Van Nuys Superior Court is left with these kinds of judges. The good ones are bailing out. I wouldn't be surprised if this court house is closed within the next 10-yrs. It's an absolute disgrace what is happening in this court house. Such a shame.

Litigant

Comment #: CA25809
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Judge Watkins is the rudest, vilest judge I have had the great displeasure to cross paths with. If you get her, immediately PAPER HER OUT. She knows nothing about the law and knows even less, if this is possible, about how to be an impartial judge. She takes sides and refused to admit concrete proof that showed the defendant had blatantly lied under oath, and she appeared to do this with joy in her evil little dead heart. She continued my case NINE times over 1 1/2 years, because she was too incompetent to manage the case properly. Her staff absolutely loathe her. My attorney filed a formal complaint about her ignorance of the law and about how she screams at people in her courtroom. I have absolutely no respect for this “judge”. I wouldn’t trust her to judge a dog show let alone have power over peoples’ lives. She is disgraceful and should be removed. PAPER HER OUT IMMEDIATELY. She is Satan incarnate. She is anything but fair and reasonable. She is a lunatic!

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA25727
Rating:9.8

Comments:
A fair and reasonable judge that demands the respect she earned and deserves while behind the bench.

Litigant

Comment #: CA25349
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Judge Shirley was an ambulance chasing med mal atty. who was obnoxious and no doubt lost clients due to her "sweetness!!" Yes she does choose favorites due to her meanness and no doubt miserable past. She should be removed from the bench because she is plain insane. She doesn't care about court cases and probably reads letters on her screen during trial because court really doesn't matter to her other than a paycheck.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA25320
Rating:2.3

Comments:
PAPER HER IMMEDIATELY! The worst judicial temperament of any judge. RUDE, RUDE, RUDE! I've been in her courtroom a number of times and each time have observed her ream at least one lawyer a new one. Not objective and unbiased. At trial, treats counsel very unevenly, letting one attorney or one party get away with things that she would not let the other attorney or party do. Will make unfair speeches on the record to try to cover her own bias and to try to portray a lawyer or a witness as doing something wrong. Makes prejudicial facial expressions. Has her head down, looking at her screen and not looking at the testifying witness to assess bodily language and expressions, and also misses looks, nods and gestures between the witness and counsel. And, she is a pompous know-it-all, who doesn't know what she says she knows. It doesn't matter what kind of case or who you represent or even if you are a great lawyer, stay away from this judge.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA24824
Rating:1.0

Comments:
She doesn't look so good as of late. Something is going on with her health or...So mean to people maybe it's taken a toll on her psyche.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA23709
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
A gutter judge. Take your case elsewhere if you're looking to have it heard by someone competent and half way decent.

Civil Litigation - Govt.

Comment #: CA23703
Rating:1.0

Comments:
worst judge in the world! should go back to law school...or pre-school. Wouldn't surprise me if she ruled that murder was legal based on what i've seen this incompetent nutto do. Truly shocked that this oaf became a judge, I wouldn't hire her as a wal mart greeter.

Litigant

Comment #: CA23661
Rating:1.0

Comments:
This judge acts mean because she is very insecure in the courtroom and therefore lashes out due to frustration and the inability to make rational decisions at the moment. She takes pending matters under submission most likely letting the law clerk (probably without much legal background) make the decisions. She is bad news

Litigant

Comment #: CA23577
Rating:1.0

Comments:
A beast! A Misanthrope- hater of mankind. She emits suppressed rage. Possibly going through some sort of hormonal imbalance. Clammy looking features. Incoherent immature rulings that are reckless and incoherent. It's apparent that she has severe personal problems and brings this into the courtroom. She is just lost. Don't even consider this judge to handle your case. An abomination.

Other

Comment #: CA23515
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Truly an abuse of power. She is a nightmare of a judge if she is presiding over your case. Openly brags about how powerful she is, describing what she has done in other cases, yet is not at all discerning in her decisions, let alone the decision to brag, and certainly not in my case. It's whatever her temperament is at the time, whichever way the wind blows. From session to session, she will backtrack on something that she agreed to prior. Nothing but equivocation. She makes scowling faces at you like a petulant school girl. She is extremely bizarre. Rude and condescending all around.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA23463
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
To state that Watkins has a great listening skills and is upholding are laws is nothing but a joke, or may be she has asked someone to post it for her after the enormous amount of true facts that expose her bias, prejudice, lack of knowledge of the law and her unfitness for this position. Definitely 170.6

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA23333
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Courteous listening skills = get out of here or else....gritting here teeth and sweating face....fails to follow basic law and Constitutional rights. Does not read papers or for that matter if she even (skim if at best) did she hasn't a clue how to analyze because she is dim wit. I believe that she must go thru legal clerks quite frequently. She is a very difficult person. G-d save the court system because it is doomed.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA23314
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Comment below mine makes no sense. Sounds like this joker has a blockage in the brain. When there is a no good judge, others need to be made aware and this is the site where the words mean something. If you don't listen now, beware of the misery you will endure if you fall prey to Watkins. Nuff said.

Other

Comment #: CA23288
Rating:9.0

Comments:
From my perspective, Judge Watkins demonstrated courteous listening skills, asked questions wisely, and after review of all facts, I found Judge Watkins made decisions impartially. With her experience, credible education, and temperament I am proud to have her responsible for making sure our laws serve justice and uphold the Constitution.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA23257
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Grits her teeth and feigns a smile once in awhile. She is frustrated at life and shows this in open court. Very disturbing. Her court will be empty soon because she is a prime candidate for 170.6. Spoke to other lawyers who had cases with her and they said she is a definite ding.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA23256
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Watkins was a prior medical mal practice atty. who apparently yelled at her clients when they didn't want to settle. Yelled so loud that it could be heard out in the waiting room. So frustrated was this judge that she decided to leave the practice and get in line to become a judge. It's an easier paycheck no doubt. No longer have to yell at clients only demean litigants in court. This woman has no business being a judge. Hasn't the brains to rationally decide cases. It's all about if she likes your "look" or some other vicious idea that she concocts. I am sure that she has legal clerks to help her out but she is off the wall in her comments and demeanor. Clearly a mental mess. 170.6

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA22134
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Imagine a criminal puts on a judge's robe, calls herself Shirley Watkins and presides over your case, would you like that? many of the reviewers call her incompetent, I think she's just mentally deranged with a predeliction towards chaos and criminality. my advice, get out of her courtroom, and then once you have flood the presiding judge with complaints about her. Eventually, like any rash or tick, she'll go away.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA22132
Rating:1.0

Comments:
A brainless, arrogant, mean spirited individual who is unfit to be a judge. Beware: Watkins is an airhead with no scruples who thinks she knows everything, she is thus very dangerous, like a child who has been given a load gun.

Litigant

Comment #: CA21901
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Rude and nasty and when she thinks that she has you on the ropes she "tears and twist" like a rabid alligator. Takes delight in being rude and cruel. Takes glee and joy in making an atty. miserable. She has crossed the line in being a decent human being. Show compassion as it seems to work well for other bench officers. In this day of portable media and lightening speed reporting, the eyes are on you. The potential of removal and or recall from the bench are all possibilities. "stay away" from this bench officer until she changes her ways.

Other

Comment #: CA21843
Rating:1.0

Comments:
170.6 and don't even have 2nd thought.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA21838
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Of all the hundreds of judges I have been before, she is the worst, the dumbest, the most unprofessional, the most mean spirited piece of junk. Disgrace that this unwholesome rotten person can actually become a judge. She doesn't know the law, she doesn't know how to think...being before her is like opening up a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get, except that it's bad. dealing with her is like a game of russian roulette...

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA21592
Rating:1.0

Comments:
She is the worst judge ever... stay away from her she will ruin you life. I had all the evidence against my ex yet she decided to convict me of something she has no evidence for

Litigant

Comment #: CA21368
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Only a judge for a short period of time and she already has been removed from Family Law Court due to an overwhelming amount of complaints. Now she finds herself in civil court trials and this too is becoming a troubling position. Have a hunch that her personal life is conflicting with her court life and she is making poor decisions and exhibiting a poor demeanor to litigants who are kind and
forcing a smile. 170.6 this judge.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA21099
Rating:1.0

Comments:
my advice: get away from the dishonorable Watkins as fast as you can. she is just about the dumbest most rotten piece of trash that ever lived.

Other

Comment #: CA19702
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
A horrific experience of an extremely bias Judge, that rules based on her intuition, bias, prejudice and jealousy. Does not rule based on the law, the facts and the circumstances of the case. She did not uphold the oath she took, when was sworn as a Judge. I am glad she is now just handling the Master calendars in the Van Nuys courtfor Lawyers, as she does not deserve the bench to rule on issues dealing with People's lives.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA18866
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Unfamiliar with the law and exhibits overwhelming bias. After wrongfully granting a preliminary inj., she denied my request for a PI bond (required by law), then signed a PI order giving property away (also prohibited by law). I agree with the poster below, 170.6 this judge.

Litigant

Comment #: CA18697
Rating:10.0

Comments:
Smartest judge on the bench!

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA18397
Rating:2.8

Comments:
Poor Van Nuys Superior Court...they can't get a break and constantly draw bottom of the barrel judges. Judge Watkins apparently doesn't have either the energy or the ability to write an opinion, even on motions she takes under submission. For this she gets a zero for scholarship. I now file everything I can downtown, as Van Nuys Superior is an empty shell of a courthouse. I also encourage my clients to go to private judges, because with an ADR judge you are assured of getting a judge with a brain, who can write a reasoned opinion. 170.6 Judge Watkins for sure.

Other

Comment #: CA14385
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Hate for women.
Gives ridiculous parenting advice.
Can’t be married or have kids - if she is they must be total train wreck.
Nasty to the core.
Finds delight in others painful
Hard to stomach her face.

Litigant

Comment #: CA14384
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Judge Watkins is an embarrassment to the judicial system. She is blatantly biased, she always has to be right, she believes she is smartest person in the room, she goes by her “suspicions” rather than facts, she twists the truth to support her point, she is rude and condescending, and she has flat out lied. A miserable women who caused chaos and harm daily.

Court Staff

Comment #: CA14149
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
She is far from objective. Hard to believe she has law degree, let alone was appointed a judge. She never acts in the best interest of the minor children. She rules based on her opinion rather than evidence or common sense. Nothing short of a disgrace.

Litigant

Comment #: CA14103
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I have been in front of 7 different judges and never experienced anything even close to how this person behaves. She has made up her mind prior to hearing either side. She has some extreme dislike of mothers. She is inappropriate and unfounded in her actions. A horrible experience. How she is a judge I will never understand.

Litigant

Comment #: CA14008
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Run away screaming! If you see her name on the docket, be sure to request another judge! You only have 10 days to do so.
Look at all these reviews! All saying the same exact things!
Her Misandrist mentality is so bad, it even extends to women sometimes.
This Monster needs to be Impeached!

Litigant

Comment #: CA13915
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I heard they are moving her to another assignments, away from Family Court, while in fact, she needs to be removed completely from the bench because she is a terrible Judge. I believe she is insecure, does not rule fairly and has one sided opinion. She does not listen to the other side and forms her opinions based on her little wisdom ( I doubt she has any).

Litigant

Comment #: CA13175
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Unjust, abuses her power and puts children in harms way.
This is a matter of a judge that is not abiding by the law and doing what’s in the best interest of the children.

In having to attend several court hearings I see it is not just my case in which she intentionally places children with the unfit parent. It shows to be her goal and repeated strategy.
No matter how many facts I have presented in court to show the other parent is indeed very dangerous and harms our child, Watkins turns it against me and has made me pay with her vindictive rulings.

Something must immediately be done. She has not been on the bench very long and has already damaged so many lives. The facts are supposed to be looked at and laws are to be considered in her rulings, but instead she makes biased rulings based on who she favors that day.

Litigant

Comment #: CA13143
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I question this judge’s integrity and competency in performing her judicial duties. She is a disgrace to the judicial system and her appointment was an error. Governor Brown, your action to immediately remove her from the bench is a must because the public have lost confidence in the judicial system.

Litigant

Comment #: CA12681
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I totally agree with other peoples comments. Judge Watkins should NOT be a judge for family court!She is very bias. Her ruling is always inacurate and seems that she has already made up her mind before hearing the case. She has horrible common sence, does Not read papers before. I was in her courtroom like about a month ago. She was so bias she ONLY heard from my exhusbands side, and chewed me up for protecting my 5 year old from his abusive father. There was a case before mine and her ruling was way off. Judge Watkins gave custody to a "father" who has a drug addiction, has no job or a place of his own. She always leans to man... she must have some issues of her own that blind her from achieving a proper ruling. Childrens lives and future are at risk with this Bias Judge. Judge Shirley Watkins Should be REMOVED IMMEDIATELY! I personally believe, Michael Convey has been one of the best Judges that courtroom has had. Because he was a reasonable inparcial Judge who cared about childrens safety and ofcourse had experience in Family Law... Something that Judge Watkins lacks on.

Other

Comment #: CA12574
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Judge Watkins should NOT be a judge for family court! After reading threat after threat from my ex, history of placing me in the hospital and a recent police report of a break in she refused to look at witness statements, police report and refused to grant a restraining order and even leaned in to my ex and said, "I get it I really do" She "gets" abuse she "gets" stalking bc this individual pays me money???? Besides this her rulings are erratic and do not seem based on any type family law but her whims and her own opinions. I do NOT see her in any light a family judge and she should be removed IMMEDIATELY - child lives and their innocence are in jepardy with Judge Watkins loose cannon of judicial rulings

Other

Comment #: CA12062
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
This judge has no common sense. A Bias judge who makes decisions based on her own opinions and doesnt take into consideration the facts that are presented to her. Watkins was willing only hear one side of the testimony when in a trial setting you should hear both sides. She could careless if you lose everything, she much rather have you pay a ridiculous amount of money then to be involved in your child's life. Its disappointing to know that from here on out my case and practically my life and trying to be involved in my childs life is up to this awful judge. I dont understand how the system allows this, look at the reviews! Every review on this judge is a negative one. There isnt one good review on this judge. Why is that? Take a look at other judges reviews and you'll see the complete opposite. I'm left with nothing. Im losing my apartment, i can no longer see my child as often because i have to move an hour away with a relative.

Other

Comment #: CA11894
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I had her removed from my case after reading these comments. You have only 10 days to file the papers otherwise your stuck with her. Just go to the same room where you filed the original papers and ask them for the forms to have her removed. I had only a brief encounter with her and am happy I removed her from my case.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA11386
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Run from this Courtroom and Judge. Terrible demeanor, came from a medical malpractice background and she does not familiarize herself with the law. She never reads the papers before the Court, schedule her cases over multiple hearings before she renders her ruling and when finally she writes her decision, she is always inaccurate. I would urge Governor Brown to investigate her judicial competency and remove her from the bench immediately.

Other

Comment #: CA11192
Rating:1.0

Comments:
The worst judge I have even seen. She has no idea what a family even is. Sad state of affairs when this is what a judge should be.

Other

Comment #: CA11184
Rating:1.0

Comments:
She loves to make bulling, no manners to treat person, no profesionalism, short of criteria she does not about enmiedas or anything related, my sugestion she needs to go back home and learn how to better human bein and values.

Other

Comment #: CA10916
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Justice does not exist in her courtroom. She does not follow family law. Her decisions are illogical and scattered. Her temperament is deplorable and not "judicial" in any manner. She's an embarrassment to the court. But what is most concerning is that she abuses the litigants and attorneys, even resorting to name calling. Should never have been appointed as a judge.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA10913
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Terrible Judge that needs extensive training. Not organized, does not follow the law, refuses to hear arguments, disrespectful to both litigants and their counsels, continues her hearings because of lack of proper scheduling, her rulings are always in accurate and are not in accordance with the law. The Judiciary Committee have to reevaluate her performance and preclude her reelection to the bench as she is an abusive bully, that does not have the decorum of an attorney, let alone a Judge.

Other

Comment #: CA10908
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Terrible Judge, must be removed from the bench. Not qualified, intellectually lazy, need additional training, does not pose herself as a Judiciary.

Other

Comment #: CA10885
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Judge Watkins failed to address the facts, the evidence and seemed very biased. She did not have clear knowledge of the case and it probably was due to the fact that she extended the court hearing to a total of 9 times within 16 months. Judge Watkins is ruling on family law when her background was clearly corporate law. I would never recommend her! Run!

Litigant

Comment #: CA10829
Rating:1.0

Comments:
How did this woman become a judge?! With all due respect, Gov. Brown, this was a mistake! She was our lawyer at Michels/Watkins for a med mal case when our daughter was killed, blatantly, by a doctor. Watkins was a nightmare lawyer; dumped us as clients because we wouldn't settle like she wanted. The others in the firm came crawling back because they knew we were due justice and Watkins had broken our legal agreement. Watkins is a horrible human being and has no soul, God forgive me, because she has children! Please, get her out of the legal system!
I heard her yelling about our case while we were in the waiting room- so offensive, I can't discuss here.
She has hang-ups about her own life/ kids; revealed her daughter didn't want to come home from summer camp...what does that even mean?!

Other

Comment #: CA10614
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Terrible woman. Judges the people in front of her before listening to the case at hand. She doesn't read the paperwork. She's rude and even calls people names. Is extremely disrespectful and should have never been appointed this position. Should be taken off the bench for screwing w/ the livelyhood of the people in front of her. She only made my situation worse by ruling in favor for a shitty father. If you have female clients, tell them to play themselves down. Judges pretty women!!

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA10453
Rating:1.0

Comments:
She is a disrespectful Judge. She does not read the papers, she does not follow the law, she is intellectually lazy. She should be removed from the bench, as she is a mens to the judicial system.

Other

Comment #: CA10387
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Obviously, Judge Watkins is not fit to be a judge. Why doesn't everyone file a complaint with the Commission on Judicial Performance. Hopefully, she will be removed and replaced with someone else who is more fit to be a judge.

Other

Comment #: CA10264
Rating:1.0

Comments:
She is unfit for her position. Seems to forget that she is a Judge and no longer a defense attorney. She has already made up her mind before a court proceeding starts. She literally did not let either side present their case: she asked all the questions of only one side and did all the talking. Neither attorney had a chance to say one word. She is the kind of woman whom the ends always justify the means and she will belittle, manipulate and penalize the victim for following the very court order meant to protect them from the abuse they've suffered. She gets off on abusing those she presides over. She is sadistic and needs to be removed from the bench. Her abuse of power has gone on for far too long. Do your research and request a new judge within the ten days of notice to have your rights and due process protected.

Litigant

Comment #: CA10123
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Judge Watkins temperament is ill suited for a bench position. She literally yelled at two different litigants in two different cases while I sat in her courtroom. She had no cause to scream at the top of her lungs at anyone. They were all well behaved and respectful. She really abused her authority as a judge to punish the litigants and lawyers alike. I was terrified for my turn to come up. And when it was my turn, she was obnoxiously rude, didn't know the law (I'm a layman and I know more law than she does), and she said one thing and then 10 ten minutes later she contradicted herself on it. And when I pointed out the discrepancy, she told me essentailly that she'd made her decision. Well which answer applies? The one before or the one 10 minutes later? Apparently, it was the one 10 minutes later. There are 3 or 4 family court rooms up there, and if I were the other judges, I'd be embarrassed to be associated with Judge Watkins. I have never seen such incompetence in my life. She's abusive, knows nothing about the law, and won't let you explain anything. I'm going to look into how to file a complaint about her. And she needs to be removed from position as a judge.

Litigant

Comment #: CA10082
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Shirley K. Watkins has no business being a judge! Especially in a court where she holds peoples lives and destiny in her hands!
She has no sense of impartiality what so ever!
She showed such incredible bias for the female perpetrator of Immigration Marriage Fraud, and such indelible Prejudice towards and against me the victim that she Violated My civil Rights!
Shirley K. Watkins is a sexist, and should be impeached! I would sue her for everything she owns if I could!

Litigant

Comment #: CA9959
Rating:1.0

Comments:
She is very rude. Even if your tone is calm and you are giving her and her courtroom respect, she still uses a bullying temperament to get her point across. She has admitted that she does not read the papers but does not allow for oral argument. She also makes it clear to show that she is annoyed and disinterested in every case that is heard before her. She makes it extremely hard to refer to her as "Your Honor" as there is nothing honorable about her. An extreme case of abusing her power.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA9637
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Talks down to people. Very rude. Does not follow California Family Code.

Litigant

Comment #: CA9636
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Tends to favor women. Watched in court room as she granted a restraining order to a woman that was bitter that her husband left her and attacked him because he was with another woman.

Litigant

Comment #: CA9635
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Does not follow the law. Instead makes up her own rules based on her values.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA8936
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I echo the comments of others here. Extremely disrespectful of all. I have heard her screaming at Pro Pers, she was disrespectful towards my client and yelled at the client. Total disregard for the United States, California Constitutions, total disregarding for the Code of Civil Procedure and the law.
Indeed she ignores the law and to call her arbitrary and capricious is a substantial understatement.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA8934
Rating:1.0

Other

Comment #: CA8883
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
Very unreasonable and rude Judge. Does not read the papers. Does not hear oral argument. Yet she makes orders, which are clearly based on nothing except her baseless, biased opinion. Do not confuse her with the facts. She makes up her mind and will not waiver. She will do anything to justify her orders.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA8402
Rating:2.4

Comments:
A generally disrespectful bully, especially to female litigants, and especially younger, female attorneys. No role model at all.

Other

Comment #: CA8099
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Needs intensive training and mentoring. Keeps the Courtroom disorganized and is not respectful to either side, especially to Pro Per individuals. Jumps between motions submitted by ignoring them going to another motion and then continuing the Motions. Judge is disrespectful to Court staff.
Order after Hearings are not accurate.