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Jun. 12, 2026

For Judge Michael Frye, justice and mercy go hand in hand

San Luis Obispo Superior Court Judge Michael S. Frye spent decades prosecuting serious crimes. Now he says one of the most rewarding parts of judging is watching drug court participants rebuild their lives.

Read more about Michael Frye...
For Judge Michael Frye, justice and mercy go hand in hand

Michael Frye

San Luis Obispo Superior Court

Career Highlights: Elected San Luis Obispo Superior Court judge, June 2024; deputy district attorney, San Luis Obispo County, 2016-2024; assistant U.S. attorney, Eastern District of California, Fresno, 2013-16; senior deputy district attorney, Fresno County, 1996-2013; associate, Marderosian Swanson & Oren, 1993-93; associate, law clerk, Chinello Chinello Shelton & Auchard, 1991-93

Law School: University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, 1991
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SAN LUIS OBISPO -- Superior Court Judge Michael S. Frye spent much of his legal career putting people in prison.

Today, the highlight of his week is watching people avoid it.

Every Friday, Frye presides over San Luis Obispo County's Adult Drug Court Program, where participants battling addiction appear before him to report on their progress. Over 18 months, he watches many of them find jobs, reconnect with family members and regain control of their lives. ... (continued)

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