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Nov. 7, 2025

Judge Damaris Diaz says fairness 'isn't automatic--it takes attention'

Former federal prosecutor brings empathy and precision to the Downey bench

Read more about Damaris Diaz...
Judge Damaris Diaz says fairness 'isn't automatic--it takes attention'

Damaris Diaz

Los Angeles County Superior Court

Career Highlights: Appointed Los Angeles County Superior Court judge by Gov. Gavin Newsom, July 17, 2024; assistant U.S. Attorney, criminal division, Central District of California, 2016-24; senior associate, Kelley Drye & Warren LLP, Los Angeles, New York, 2007-16

Law School: Harvard Law School, 2007
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DOWNEY - By midmorning, Superior Court Judge Damaris M. Diaz's misdemeanor calendar has thinned, but the rhythm hasn't slowed. Some defendants have failed to appear. Probation bail bonds are now set at $5,000. Another probationer hasn't completed a treatment program.

There's no sign of irritation, but the weight of those choices is constant.

"When I was a lawyer, I could make my best argument and someone else decided," Diaz said lat... (continued)

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