(Subscription required) From overseeing gang-related murder cases to high-profile trials like actor Danny Masterson's rape case, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo has earned a reputation for precision, fairness, and composure. A former prosecutor and federal attorney, she runs a strict but evenhanded courtroom and says empathy and preparation are her guiding principles.

The California Supreme Court will honor the legacy of former Justice Joseph R. Grodin at the start of its oral argument session on November 4. Justice Grodin, who served on the court from 1982 to 1987, passed away in April at the age of 94.

While most courts make threats, about 21% admit they don't sanction at all. The net effect is that more than 2.7 million Californians failed to appear for a jury summons last year out of approximately 10.6 million that were summoned, meaning one out of four people simply didn't show up. 

(Subscription required) Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed AB 250, creating a two-year window in 2026-27 for adult survivors of sexual assault to bring previously time-barred civil claims. The law targets cases involving alleged institutional "cover-ups" but excludes public entities.