Judge O’Neill of the Superior Court

* I believe that the criticism levied against Superior Court Judge Vincent O’Neill Jr. by the Ventura County public defender’s office is unfair and unwarranted. I am an attorney who has practiced criminal law in Ventura County since 1990 and am usually in the criminal courts on a daily basis. I feel I have a unique perspective to offer the public on Judge O’Neill as I have appeared in front of him as both a prosecutor and as a criminal defense attorney.

In all of my cases involving Judge O’Neill, he has been fair and considerate to my clients. I have not always agreed with all of his rulings, as with any judge, however I feel that he thoughtfully considered all of the applicable law and allowed each party ample opportunity to be heard.

Judge O’Neill is a recognized legal scholar and has authored a legal treatise on the law of confessions. He has lectured at the California Judicial College. His courtroom demeanor is exemplary. He is even-tempered and respectful of counsel, witnesses, parties, jurors and court personnel. His ethics are beyond reproach.

Judge Vincent O’Neill Jr. is truly an asset to our judiciary and I will continue to appear in front of him along with many other lawyers who feel the same.

BRENDA C. ANDRADE

Ventura