"The Robing Room: CA State Judges

Hon. Craig Elliot Veals	See Rating Details
Judge Superior Court
Los Angeles County	See Comments

Attorney Average Rating: 3.1 - 65 rating(s) Non-Attorney Average Rating: 4.0 - 10 rating(s)	Please send me alerts on this judge E-mail Address:

Add your own rating

E-Mail Address ()

* *

Confirm E-mail Address

* * *

Zip

Occupation

Add a comment only

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

Please type what you see below:

Not an even number!

What others have said about Hon. Craig Elliot Veals

Comments

Other

Comment #: CA23499
Rating:9.0

Comments:
I found the jury selection process to be detailed and fair. Judge Veals went out of his way to explain abstract legal definitions until everybody incl non-native speakers really got it. I found his attentive, patient and courteous way to communicate with potential jurors inviting. There is an educational aspect to this process that i did not see before. Vielen Dank!

Other

Comment #: CA20092
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I have sat through jury selection several times now. Compared to the others, this judge seemed confused about proper procedure and was capricious in his determinations. What a waste of jurors' precious time. More respect needs to be shown to those who actually answer the call to serve on a jury.

Other

Comment #: CA20090
Rating:1.0

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA19633
Rating:1.0

Comments:
170 this guy. HORRIBLE JUDGE. BIASED IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA19294
Rating:1.0

Comments:
This is a judge with a big head who should be papered. If you don't you'll regret it. His rulings are based upon what he thinks he superiors will think of him. The worst of the worst in this building.

Other

Comment #: CA19278
Rating:10.0

Comments:
He is very firm , kind and respectful

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA17543
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Poorly educated and biased judge. Paper him at the first opportunity.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA17209
Rating:1.0

Comments:
A biased pompous and overly egocentric jurist.
I’ve yet to find anyone that out of his court room respects or liked the man.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA16085
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Most disparaging comments about this judge are sadly true.
Positive comments are suspect with multiple positive comments being posted within seconds of each other.
One might even wonder if Judge Veals posts his own positive reviews. Especially since he obsesses about it in open court.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA15857
Rating:10.0

Comments:
Brilliant thoughtful and fair

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA15856
Rating:10.0

Comments:
Great Judge. Fair. Anyone that rates this Judge below exemplary is just angry because they didn’t get what they wanted. Truth be told if they didn’t get it, it wasn’t deserved

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA14756
Rating:1.0

Comments:
This is a jurist to paper at your earliest opportunity. Incompetent is an understatement. and a very racially biased judge at that.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA13494
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Literally all of the negative comments about Judge Veals are sadly accurate

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA13280
Rating:1.1

Comments:
Horrible Judge. My last day as a prosecutor in his courtroom was probably the most pleasant i’ll ever experience in saying goodbye to a jurist. An uneducated and biased petty man at best. Hope someone runs against him next time.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA13098
Rating:1.0

Comments:
A petulant and horrible example of a jurist. paper this Judge at once at the first opportunity.

Other

Comment #: CA12949
Rating:8.0

Comments:
Judge Veals asked very thorough, thought-provoking questions to potential jurors. Questions about specific knowledge the jury should NOT consider, i.e. possible punishments, was very helpful. his comment that circumstantial evidence lies somewhere on a Bell Curve was helpful to jurors in considering where each piece of evidence lay. His sense of humor was helpful. Finally, his willingness to accommodate juror's specific needs regarding appointments, etc. was greatly appreciated. Judge Veals treated the prosecution and the defense equally. He played no favorites. He exhibited no bias. His comments and questions of jurors exhibited a deep respect for, knowledge of and understanding of the law.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12880
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Just horrible Judge and courtroom. Paper this guy.

Probation or Pretrial Officer

Comment #: CA12792
Rating:1.0

Comments:
If I never have to sit in this Judges presence again, that would be a gift. An arrogant and glib judge.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA12741
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Even though pro prosecution, a terrible excuse for a Judge in this State. If he only knew how many people laugh at him out of court.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12703
Rating:1.1

Comments:
An awful Judge. Awful! Actually one of the worst I have encountered. With a big head to match. Awful!

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12664
Rating:1.0

Comments:
This is a jurist who should be papered.
I haven't seen a judge who is not only pompous but has an ego (that doesn't match his intelligence of knowledge of the law) like this in my career.

Probation or Pretrial Officer

Comment #: CA12517
Rating:1.0

Comments:
This judge is arrogant. A lot of attorneys paper him

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12434
Rating:1.0

Comments:
A petty petulant man. Full of hi,self with little knowledge of the la. Seems more interested in serving his own ego. Glad my stay with him will be short. This one should be papered.

Probation or Pretrial Officer

Comment #: CA12276
Rating:1.0

Comments:
What is stated about Judge Veals is true. Spending any time near this Judge results in much discomfort.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA12239
Rating:1.1

Comments:
If I never set foot in this courtroom again, it would be a gift from above. I hope someone runs against Judge Veals next time around, or that he is summarily dismissed. Either way is good for me. Incompetent is an understatement.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12207
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Given his known bias, and anyone who has been in his courtroom knows what I am talking about, this judge is exactly the reason why 170.6 exists.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12203
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Most of what is written about Judge Veals is true. Sad commentary. Better to paper him and find another judge to manage your case.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12179
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Judge veals is one of the worst and laziest judges around the L.A. Superior Criminal Court System.
I'm surprised the supervising judge hasn't taken notice yet.
During our trial Judge Veals made many irrational rulings.
Everyday his bi-polar personality changed. Some sort of bizarre syndrome. Make sure you file a preemptory challenge or else you will have a miserable time before this mentall ill psycho.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12173
Rating:1.1

Comments:
Paper this Judge. Talks about his ratings on this site between cases. If I hadn’t heard it for myself I would have never believed it. Biased. Is not qualified to sit on the bench. Has an ego to show for it.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12163
Rating:10.0

Comments:
I have had the pleasure of litigating complex cases before this judge and must say that there are very few, if any,that exhibit the kind of dedication, knowledge and fairness that can be expected from him.

Judge Veals treats all who appear before him on an equal basis, plays no favorites and has no bias. His decisions exhibit a deep knowledge and understanding of the law, and he goes out of his way to allow all sides more than ample opportiny to present the evidence and the law to support their side of the case.

If you are looking for an evenhanded judge who does not rush to judgement, who consistently exhibits deep knowledge of the law,and who is fair to all, you cannot do better than him.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12146
Rating:1.0

Comments:
This is a Judge that you will definitely want to paper! Neglect to do so and your client will pay dearly for your mistake.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12122
Rating:2.1

Comments:
Don’t care for this Judge. Questionable ability as a jurist.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA12073
Rating:1.4

Comments:
Biased. Unbelievable ego. Plain and simple. Paper him at first chance.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA12028
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Poor temperament for a jurist. We all look with anticipation to the day he leaves the bench. A VERY poor jurist!

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11906
Rating:1.3

Comments:
This is a courtroom you want to stay out of. Judge Veals is portrayed in a very honest way on this forum. If you are the unfortunate soul who has been assigned a trial with Judge Veals, paper him! Not a competent Judge whatsoever!

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA11863
Rating:1.4

Comments:
With much reluctance, I must say that most of the comments regarding Judge Veals are accurate. Maybe his retirement is something we can all look forward to.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA11831
Rating:1.4

Comments:
Last day today after too many years visiting the Judge Veals Zoo of a courtroom. My only hope is that I will never have to encounter this jurist again.
Good Riddance!

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA11822
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I couldn't agree more with the most recent sentiment. I always take a deep breath and meditate prior to entering Judge Veals Courtroom. It's unpleasant.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11814
Rating:1.0

Comments:
It is with much regret that I must agree with my colleagues in their sub-standard assessment of Judge Veals. It is with even more regret that we all must wait for the next election to convince a better suited jurist to run against him.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11806
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I wholeheartedly agree that Judge Veals is a classic narcissist. Paper him.

Other

Comment #: CA11724
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I guaranty you, every 9+ rating on this site is from Judge Veals himself (or someone who he has convinced to do so.) He believes himself to be mentally superior to EVERYONE and can't stand the idea that someone thinks he made any kind of mistake. Goes out of his way to prove it wrong. Apparently lives in an echo chamber and has no concept of self-awareness when it comes to what bs flows from his mouth. If he only knew what people within the system really think of him. He speaks incessantly on politics and hasn't noticed that the only attorneys who engage with him are the ones who share his views. The rest of us, who have to try cases in front of him, just smile and try not to piss him off with our own political views out of fear of retribution to our clients. How do you debate politically a man in a robe who has complete control of your client's future???? Sadly, the lack of challenge seems to make him feel even more correct in his political views. I'm there on a consistent enough basis to know no case of any real seriousness goes to trial in his court. Paper him if possible.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11647
Rating:9.3

Comments:
WONDERFUL JUDGE

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11484
Rating:1.6

Comments:
The subject of Judge Veals came up today in the hallway. Actually it was the talk of a few people during a lengthy conversation of his noticeable disappointment over his ratings on the Robing Room site.
While I am not overly fond of this Judge, I can only hope that both he and the people who wish to vilify those with a less than stellar opinion of him realize the democracy is best expressed when there is dissent. It's a website people. Let's keep this in perspective.
As a final comment though, I do find it interesting that the last barrage of positive comments for Judge Veals came within minutes of each other and all basically said the same thing. Could it be someone enlisted to post these opinions, or just a coincidence. It's all silly.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11391
Rating:1.1

Comments:
Short appearance in his court, listened to counsel and Judge discuss his ratings on this site which I had never heard of before. Seems out of place and off, even if off the record.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA11390
Rating:10.0

Comments:
I have appeared in Judge Veals court numerous times and while I have not always had him rule in my favor, I was given his rationale and clearly understand his position and appreciated the thought given to each and every ruling. Only an infant would give him a low rating which is clearly because someone did not get a favorable ruling. Anyone would be happy to have him preside over a trial.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11389
Rating:9.9

Comments:
Any negative comments are from individuals who are clearly unhappy with rulings made by this judge. It's interesting to see that the low ratings below are from both the defense and prosecution. This demonstrates that he is fair.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11388
Rating:9.8

Comments:
Wonderful Judge. Always explains rulings to ensure each side understands the court's reasoning.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11387
Rating:9.9

Comments:
It is clear that anyone who has given this fine judicial officer a low rating is a person that is unhappy with fair rulings. Judge Veals gives both sides an equal opportunity to argue their respective positions. He asks questions when he needs more information and will often research materials himself to ensure his rulings are fair and consistent with the law. Only an immature person would attempt to provide false and misleading information about this judge. Shame on you!

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11286
Rating:1.6

Comments:
This jurist is not one who I feel is fair and open minded. Most definitely does now follow the law and demonstrates bias at times. A very large ego that is easily bruised and comments from the bench confirm that. I took a few moments to read the reviews and was not at all shocked to read the various comments and ratings related to Judge Veals. Of course there are some who like him, but for the most part the system knows who he is and that speaks for itself. I can only hope that this jurist is able to temper his ego as he gains more experience and apply the law in an even handed manner.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA11151
Rating:1.1

Comments:
It was my last week, and my last time in Judge Veals courtroom. As I enter private practice, I hope that I can avoid entering his courtroom and being subject to bias. He is a an officer that should be papered. I'm fortunate that my experiences were unpleasant but brief. I feel for those who have to endure a long trial with this Judge.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA11071
Rating:1.6

Comments:
I have taken to writing a review about a state court judge only twice since practicing. This judge doesn't seem to be a proper fit for this courtroom or any for that matter. I was surprised when reading other reviews that he discusses his ratings on this site with counsel off the court record. Shouldn't he be concerned with honing his skills as a trial judge. I feel confident in the ratings I applied to Judge Veals.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA10982
Rating:9.5

Comments:
This in response to the very childish "news flash" that Judge Veals discussed this website with someone "during a break in court." Really? A few observations: first, I was that someone. Second, the judge encouraged no one, including me, to write anything about him, good, bad, or indifferent, and you know it. Third, you insinuate the judge initiated the discussion is also a lie. Shake off your self-appointed duty to serve as the bench's moral compass despite your infinite perfection and answer two simple questions: even if it all happened as you falsely claimed,so what? And most important of all, why does behaving as a common snake in the grass seem to suit you so well?

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA10879
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I have seen it all. During a break in court Judge Veals discusses his ratings on this venue and encourages those in court to review him positively. What? Who does that? I find him to be a pompus somewhat intelligent judge. I wouldn't give him a positive rating though. He hasn't earned it nor deserves it. The reviews that Veals considers negative might very well portray what took place in his courtroom with reference to a case. It is most certainly NOT character assassination.

Other

Comment #: CA10873
Rating:10.0

Comments:
Judge Veals has always shown his commitment to serve justice by being reasonable, well versed in the law and fair to both sides. A judge of his caliber should not have to endure unfair character assassination.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA10859
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
My experience with this court room and judge is a professional and courteous atmosphere. The judge seemed fair to all parties and about the law. Never had any negative experience along the likes discussed in this room. I have seen Judge Veals take time for jurors and defendants. Certainly nothing to lead me to believe he is disturbed. Those seem like biased and childish comments from someone who took the outcome in court a little too personally!

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA10858
Rating:9.9

Comments:
I have appeared before Judge Veals on several occasions during all stages of numerous serious and complex criminal matters. He is even tempered, deliberative and thorough. On each occasion, he has demonstrated a command of the law and more pointedly good common sense and judgment regarding the relative strengths and weaknesses of a prosecution case. Such an ability is essential in the plea negotiation process. When unable to resolve a case by plea negotiation and the case proceeds to jury trial, I have always received fair and impartial rulings, and could count on Judge Veals to strike a balance in order to achieve a fair administration of justice. He is patient and allows the lawyers to try their respective case. On several occasions, I have witnessed this judge to endure acts of petulant disrespect and unprofessionalism by litigants who appeared before him. He would never respond in kind and engage in petty retribution. He is industrious and handles his calendar in an efficient manner while still allowing the litigants to be heard. It has always been a pleasure to appear before him.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA10818
Rating:10.0

Comments:
The negative comments I have read here about Judge Veals are the standard cliché-ridden, unsubstantiated criticisms leveled by inadequate litigators who project their personal and professional flaws upon others, which we see is especially made easy to do under the cowardly cloak of complete anonymity. I find it objectionable that this very fine bench officer should be besmirched by some so unfairly. Where I come from, this is called libel. The very nature of the claims shows they do not arise from reasoned analysis but from jealousy or a malicious urge to retaliate for not having received one's way, or both. Would that not more accurately demonstrate the questionable mental stability, intellect and demeanor of the accuser? To be sure, judges are called upon to make difficult calls, and everyone operating within the system sooner or later will neither like nor agree with a particular ruling. But civility, maturity, and professionalism, if possessed, require a completely different and more constructive response than what we have seen here from some. Where is the respect for the system, respect for the court, respect for oneself? It's unbecoming to behave like a petulant, spoiled 5-year-old who has never been taught to cope with being told "no" from time to time. The derision I have seen here has no practical impact but to demean, which is telling. It suggests motive, and the level of immaturity could not be more apparent. Anyone who knows Judge Veals and who sees things rationally must appreciate his incredible work ethic (to claim he never reads attorneys' submissions is just plain stupid), his patience and uncommon good temperament (I have seen him deal with even the most difficult attorneys, some of whom have very likely vented their spleen here, with unwavering tolerance and grace), and ability (his rulings are cerebral and solid, including the ones that haven't gone my way, I am big enough to admit). Finally, a strange bit of coincidence: as fate would have it, I recently heard Judge Veals quote Fredrick Nietzche, whom I studied extensively in college, in his courtroom. I wrote that quote down because I found it to be so compelling. It also perfectly describes someone so miserable, lacking in judgment, and cowardly to take anonymous pot shots at this remarkable judge on an internet website: "The higher we soar, the smaller we appear to those who cannot fly."

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA10455
Rating:1.0

Comments:
The majority of the comments accurately Judge Veals

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA10208
Rating:1.1

Comments:
Transferring to a place that keeps me from Veals. Every appearance in his courtroom is a struggle. The struggle being from keeping my mouth shut. Doesn't represent our State well. Prosecution and Defense have not much good to say about this judge.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA10194
Rating:1.3

Comments:
I just left Judge Veals courtroom. A Narcissist at best. I will paper this Judge any time I have the opportunity. Another reviewer likened this place to a "Zoo". Not far off.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA10119
Rating:1.3

Comments:
The most concerning things about this judge is that most, if not all the comments pertaining to him, are accurate.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA10056
Rating:1.1

Comments:
It is sad to say, but I honestly feel that this judge expresses racial bias to defendants in this courtroom. This is not an even handed judge. To say I was amused at his bench theatrics does not nearly describe what I witnessed. There has to be a better way to vet and appoint judges. This judge shouldn't sit where he is.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA9929
Rating:1.0

Comments:
As someone who has just left the office for another State, I can only say the most all of the comments regarding Judge Veals are accurate. I am glad I will never have to see Judge Veals again.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA9830
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Spent a day this last week with this Judge in his court room. Judge has what appears to be many emotional issues. Commenced proceedings late without regard to others scheduling. Not at all punctual. Seemed to anger quite quickly when confronted with opposing opinions or objections. Most certainly not even handed. I would dismiss this judge when you have the opportunity. I would venture to guess you will be sorry if you do not. A very sad courtroom.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA9687
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Having practiced law for almost twenty years I was shocked yesterday by the complete absurdity that takes place in this Judge's courtroom. Judge Veals is not even handed, not well versed on the law, does not read filed motions, does not take the time to reflect on motions made by counsel on either side. This Judge just should not be sitting on the bench.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA9673
Rating:1.0

Comments:
I spent the morning in this "Judicial Officer's" courtroom. This is one situation where the below comments are fairly accurate. Complete lack of a proper judicial temperament-period.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA9590
Rating:1.3

Comments:
If I could provide a rating of zero I would do that. Judge Veals is a rare example of what we all do not want to see from the court. Hopefully someone will run against him next time he is due for re-election. I can't express the contempt most have for this Judge.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA9547
Rating:1.9

Comments:
Mental Illness Straight from the bench. Not a judge you want to go to trial with. Takes many glasses of wine to recover from a day in his insane asylum.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA8968
Rating:1.6

Comments:
Judge Veals is what most here refer to him as. A fairly incompetent idiot!
While we as prosecutors can usually sway him to do what we like, he is just a fool most of the time. We appreciate him being able to be swayed towards the People's table, but really it just is such a trip to get there. How he was elected just boggles the mind.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA8756
Rating:9.0

Comments:
Judge Veals is a really good judge. He is smart and actually reads the files and pleadings filed in preparation for hearings. He understands complex legal issues, and is actually willing to listen and consider a position, even if it means that his initial opinion was incorrect (or he got swayed by the prosecutor - his former calendar prosecutor was a hard ass without a brain to match). Judge Veals cares more about being fair and just than his own ego, unlike many other judges. He cares about the defendants, and the man works hard. He is tough. With him, you should never risk missing a hearing, never risk catching new cases while out on OR (risking revocation, bail increase and remand to jail), don't make mistakes (in court or otherwise), and have the defendants "do right" as well as their attorney. Don't waste his time with frivolous requests or expect to "get out of it" without good cause and a strong case. But he spends his time on each case, reaches fair decisions and I would highly recommend him. (Just watch out that his prosecutor doesn't try to predispose him against your client - so work for your client while in this courtroom. Judge Veals is an overall 9 for sure. That is the best I would go, because I don't think there is a 10 on the bench.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA8670
Rating:2.6

Comments:
In spite of the fact that this Judge is fairly pro-prosecution, it is painful to see the degree of incompetence that this court officer exudes. Every appearance before him is akin to attending a circus. Just sad. He will be a lifer here though. Unfortunately for all of us.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA8038
Rating:2.3

Comments:
Not a judge that is even handed, nor a judge who is smart enough or well educated enough to follow the law. He is a numbers man pure and simple. He's processing cases on an assembly line and will violate rights to do so. Really an odd guy with a huge ego problem. Stay away.

Other

Comment #: CA8008
Rating:Not Rated
Comments:
This department is a crack-up to work in. Make sure you bow to the royalty. And I agree with the previous post regarding the D.A. Wow! What psycho.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA7933
Rating:10.0

Comments:
I am a criminal and civil practitioner who has tried maybe six or seven criminal cases in front of Judge Veals in recent years. I have found him to be more than fair. He follows the law and has been very pleasant to me and to others as well. He is one of the few judges who actually speaks to my clients with concern and treats them with dignity and compassion. While I have not been thrilled with every ruling, I have understood them and have appreciated his explanation and careful consideration in making them. I am scheduled to start another trial in his court in a few weeks and wouldn't think of going anywhere else.

Prosecutor

Comment #: CA7827
Rating:2.1

Comments:
This judge must be bipolar. While he is very pro prosecution, he is a certifiable nut job.

Civil Litigation - Private

Comment #: CA7706
Rating:10.0

Comments:
While I ordinarily would not take the time to respond to the likes of the enraged diatribe posted a few days ago regarding Judge Veals, I had to make an exception here. These comments conspicuously appeared the day after Judge Veals sentenced a defendant for having violated his probation for the second time, and given the tenor of the comments, there is no question about who posted them. I was present in Judge Veals court and listened to the proceedings. Conveniently absent from the commentor's comments is even a passing reference to the facts. Those facts are essential for proper context. Judge Veals pointed out during the hearing that the defendant had been convicted for repeatedly raping an 11-yer old girl. He was somehow placed on probation in another court and told to register as a sex offender. He violated probation by failing to register to and picked up a new case for that. He then violated probation on the sex registration case and received additional time in custody. He then abandoned probation again, this time illegally leaving California. He apparently relocated to Texas and was soon prosecuted there for various offenses, one of them being a drug case. He had several pounds of marijuana in his possession in that case and received a sentence of I believe eight years. The defendant returned to California after serving this sentence. He neither reported to probation to clear up his warrant nor updated his sex offender registration as required by law. He was arrested on the bench warrant and his case was transferred to Judge Veals' court for resolution. The attorney who argued for the defendant of course had no reasonable excuse to present on his client's behalf. His very anemic plea essentially was for the court to give the defendant some slack since he had served a significant prison sentence in Texas once he had abandoned his probationary obligations in California. Throughout the entire process, Judge Veals listened to him patiently and attentively, and outlined in painstaking detail every fact upon which he would base his decision. The judge noted this was the third day of argument on the subject, and that the court had even put the matter over on earlier occasions to afford the attorney an opportunity to appear on the case (he had earlier sent an underling to argue the case and, apparently unhappy with the way things developed, asked through his proxy to put the case over yet again). Judge Veals ultimately refused to reinstate the defendant's probation and sentenced him to the low term of 16 months in prison(the defendant was eligible to receive 3 years of imprisonment). It is unfortunate that anyone would so irresponsibly attack so well-meaning, exceptional, and hard working a judge as Craig Veals, especially in response to the case that triggered it all, but mindless character assassination apparently will always be the last resort of those who can't make their point professionally, objectively, and on the facts.

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Comment #: CA7689
Rating:1.0

Comments:
Walking into the courtroom of Craig Veals is like entering the eighth Circle of Hell. It is unbearable. The judge himself is a card-carrying imbecile who attempts to be pleasant while giving the most draconian sentences possible. He is a mean, evil man. His calendar DA is a dirtbag of the first order -- a petty punitive and stupid person. Paper this judge, stay away at all costs.