Hon. John Einhorn

Judge John S. Einhorn was one of the most important judges to ever serve on the San Diego Superior Court. Prior to his appointment he was a prominent civil and criminal litigator for over 26 years. He was then appointed to the Superior Court in 1995 where he remained until his retirement in 2013, an 18-year legacy of distinction on the Court.

He excelled in court leadership, including service as Presiding Judge, Assistant Presiding Judge and North County Supervising Judge. He also served a lengthy tenure on the Court’s Executive Committee. He was known by his colleagues as a leader who unselfishly motivated and mentored his fellow judges.

However, Judge Einhorn was not just known for his court leadership. He was one of the most gifted trial judges in court history. He served as both a civil independent calendar judge and a criminal law judge. He loved nothing more than presiding over major jury trials. He was beloved by lawyers, staff and his fellow colleagues. He was assigned some of the most difficult criminal cases in the county. That included his last case, a death penalty trial involving multiple defendants who led a murderous gang known as “Los Palillos.” Judge Einhorn received credible death threats while handling multiple trials related to this conspiracy. While in jury selection on the final trial involving the two lead defendants, he had a medical emergency related to the extraordinary stress from the case. He had to retire immediately from the job he loved.

He is revered to this day for his extraordinary tenure as a lawyer and judge.