Intemperate Judge Suspended

The West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals has adopted the recommendations of its Judicial Conduct Board and suspended a family court judge without pay for four years with other sanctions.

The judge conceded that he was repeatedly intemperate with litigants, showed disrespect for authority and was unable to properly manage his staff.

The court found 24 violations of nine Canons of Judicial Conduct.

Chief Justice Benjamin concurred,  in the result but questioned the majority's use of inherent judicial powers to impose the sanctions.

Widespread publicity was given to this video of the judge in action. (Mike Frisch)