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Judges and Judiciary

Jul. 1, 2026

Veteran LA Judge Stephen Czuleger to retire after nearly 40 years on the bench

Longtime Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge J. Stephen Czuleger, a former presiding judge known for demanding preparation and efficiently managing jury trials, will retire July 31 after a judicial career spanning nearly four decades.

Veteran LA Judge Stephen Czuleger to retire after nearly 40 years on the bench
Judge J. Stephen Czuleger

After nearly four decades on the bench, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge J. Stephen Czuleger has announced his retirement, concluding a judicial career marked by discipline, meticulous preparation and a deep commitment to jury trials.

"I have not decided yet what to do next," Czuleger wrote in an email Tuesday. "After July 31 I will take the month of August off. After that I will do whatever my wife tells me to do. Lol."

Gov. George Deukmejian a...

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