Ahead of the June primary election, the Southern California News Group compiled a list of questions to pose to the candidates who wish to represent you. You can find the full questionnaire below. Questionnaires may have been edited for spelling, grammar, length and, in some instances, to remove hate speech and offensive language.
Name: Maria Ghobadi
Current job title: Deputy District Attorney
Age: 49
Incumbent: No
Other political positions held: None
City where you reside: N/A
Campaign website or social media: mariaghobadi4judge.com
What do you consider to be your judicial philosophy? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
My judicial philosophy is grounded in fairness, integrity and respect for the rule of law. I believe the role of a judge is to serve as a neutral and impartial decision-maker who ensures that every person who enters the courtroom is treated with dignity and afforded full due process. Justice requires both accountability and compassion, and I am committed to carefully applying the law to the facts of each case without bias or preconceived outcomes.
My years as a career prosecutor handling complex and high-stakes criminal cases — including domestic violence, sexual assault and homicide cases — have reinforced the importance of preparation, professionalism and thoughtful listening. I understand the profound impact court decisions have on victims, defendants, families and the broader community. As a judge, I would strive to maintain an orderly, respectful courtroom where all voices are heard and the legal process is transparent and fair.
How do you think your personal experience — legal or otherwise — would inform your decisions as a judge? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
My personal and professional experiences have shaped a deep appreciation for fairness, diversity and hard work. As a career prosecutor with more than 17 years of experience handling complex criminal cases — including homicide, domestic violence and sexual assault — I have seen firsthand the profound consequences that judicial decisions can have on victims, defendants, families and communities. These experiences have taught me the importance of careful listening, thoughtful analysis and applying the law with discipline and impartiality. I believe in the careful balance between public safety and fairness.
In addition, my background as an immigrant raised in a hardworking, multicultural family has given me a strong understanding of the challenges many people face when navigating unfamiliar systems. It has reinforced my belief that the courtroom must be a place where all individuals feel heard, respected and treated with dignity, regardless of their background.
Lastly, my longstanding commitment to community service and outreach has also deepened my awareness of the diverse needs and concerns within our communities. Together, these experiences would guide me to approach each case with empathy, balance and an unwavering commitment to equal justice under the law.
How would you approach situations where you have judicial discretion within the law? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Judicial discretion is one of the most powerful tools entrusted to a judge, and it must be exercised with great care, discipline and thoughtfulness. When the law affords discretion, my approach would be to carefully consider the governing statutes and case law, the specific facts of the case and the broader interests of fairness, consistency and justice.
With over 17 years of experience prosecuting serious felony matters, I have developed a deep appreciation for the importance of thorough preparation, careful listening and measured, deliberate decision-making. I recognize that discretionary rulings can have significant consequences for the parties involved and for the community. For that reason, I would strive to articulate clear reasoning on the record, ensure that all relevant factors are thoughtfully weighed and treat similarly situated individuals consistently while recognizing the unique circumstances of each case. Ultimately, I view judicial discretion as a responsibility to apply the law in a manner that promotes fairness, accountability, and public confidence in the justice system.
How would you weigh your own personal beliefs against the law, should they conflict? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
My responsibility as a judge would be to faithfully apply the law, regardless of my personal beliefs or experiences. The judicial oath requires impartiality and adherence to constitutional and statutory principles, even in difficult or emotionally charged cases. If a matter were to present a genuine conflict between my personal views and my ability to remain fair and impartial, I would follow the governing ethical standards, including recusal when appropriate.
Judicial decision-making must be grounded in the facts, the evidentiary record and the controlling law. By approaching each case with humility, an open mind and respect for due process, a judge can ensure that outcomes are guided by legal principles rather than personal preference. Maintaining this discipline helps protect the integrity of the courts and strengthens public confidence in the justice system.
As an existing member of the legal community, how would you handle potential claims of misconduct against local attorneys, law firms or law enforcement organizations? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
If an attorney, law firm or law enforcement organization engaged in misconduct, I would address it promptly and, on the record, make clear that such conduct is unacceptable, and take immediate steps to stop it. I would then impose appropriate corrective or disciplinary measures consistent with the law and my ethical obligations. These may include admonishment, curative instructions, monetary or evidentiary sanctions; dismissal where warranted; and referral to the State Bar or the appropriate disciplinary authority.
If the conduct raised concerns under the Racial Justice Act, I would ensure that the issue is properly addressed, including initiating the necessary proceedings.
Above all, I would be committed to maintaining a courtroom environment in which all participants are treated with dignity and respect, and misconduct of any kind would not be tolerated.
What is your philosophy on judicial activism and a judge’s potential role in shaping or setting public policy? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
My judicial philosophy is grounded in the rule of law, judicial independence and respect for the constitutional separation of powers. A judge’s role is not to create or advocate for public policy, but to fairly interpret and faithfully apply the law to the facts of each case. While courts play a vital role in protecting constitutional rights and ensuring that government actions comply with legal standards, those responsibilities must be exercised with restraint, neutrality and respect for the functions of the legislative and executive branches.
If elected, I would focus on issuing thoughtful, well-reasoned decisions grounded in the governing law and the evidentiary record. I would strive to maintain transparency in my rulings, manage proceedings efficiently and ensure that all who appear before the court are treated with dignity and fairness. By remaining disciplined, impartial and mindful of the limits of the judicial role, a judge can help strengthen public confidence in the justice system while honoring the proper boundaries of judicial authority.