Judge Chinhayi Cadet: A Gavel That Strikes Harder on Targeted Women

San Mateo County Family Court is supposed to be a place of fairness and justice. Yet, for many litigants, particularly women, opinions are mounting that under Judge Chinhayi Cadet’s watch, fairness takes a back seat to bias, and justice is unevenly applied. Judge Cadet methodically favors the affluent well, connected and represented by prominent local attorneys and male litigants. She is egregiously failing to uphold Judicial Canons and fundamental legal standards. You can read about how exactly this judge violates the rights to due process and fair hearing in the complaint lodged with the Presiding Judge, Elizabeth Lee, here.

Indigent litigants and survivors of abuse describe Judge Cadet's courtroom as a place where disadvantaged parties—especially women, minorities, and self-represented litigants—are left feeling silenced, retaliated against, made to feel marginalized, isolated, and financially drained.

Many state that navigating Judge Cadet’s courtroom feels like walking into a battle already lost—unless you’re wealthy or well-connected. For those without such advantages, the experience can be deeply disheartening.

One litigant, a single mother on disability, described her ordeal:

“I provided detailed evidence of financial hardship caused by my disability. Instead of addressing this, the court imposed a sanction of over $40,000—leaving me with no way to stay afloat. It felt punitive, not just unjust.”

This mother’s story is not isolated. Allegations suggest that wealthier litigants with high-powered attorneys are often given more leeway, while others face harsher scrutiny and dismissive treatment.

Patterns of Bias in Judge Chinhayi Cadet’s Courtroom

Observers have pointed to troubling trends in Judge Cadet’s courtroom, including:

• Disparities in Treatment: Minority litigants, especially women of Slavic or Eastern European descent, report feeling marginalized or prejudiced against. One attorney recounted how their Russian last name was repeatedly mispronounced 8 times and all differently in what they perceived as an intentional display of disrespect.

• Punitive Rulings: Litigants claim that sanctions and penalties in Judge Cadet's court often seem disproportionate, especially when applied to those raising legitimate concerns or seeking basic legal relief.

• Inconsistent Conduct: In some cases, Judge Cadet has been described as deferential and exceptionally accommodating, while in others, especially involving minority women, her demeanor is alleged to be rude, dismissive, and hostile, leaving litigants feeling belittled and disregarded.

  
  

Impact on Families

The consequences of alleged judicial bias ripple far beyond the courtroom. Families depend on fair rulings to determine child support, custody, and their financial futures. When those decisions feel skewed, it can leave lasting damage.

One litigant recounted:

“I watched as my case was rushed through without much consideration for the evidence I worked so hard to collect. Meanwhile, the opposing counsel seemed to receive all the time and respect in the world. It was disheartening and unfair.”

What Needs to Change?

Public confidence in the judiciary rests on believing that courts are fair and impartial. Allegations of bias and misconduct erode that trust, especially in family law, where the stakes are deeply personal.

Advocates are calling for:

1. A Thorough Investigation: The California Commission on Judicial Performance must examine these allegations and take appropriate action. Multiple complaints were already submitted to CJP. If you need to submit yours, you can ask us for help.

2. Greater Transparency: Litigants and the public deserve clarity about all judges' compliance with legal requirements, including the filing of official bonds, which Judge Cadet conveniently misses. Court proceedings should be accessible to observe by Zoom and in person.

3. Judicial Accountability: Clear standards must be upheld to ensure all litigants are treated with respect and impartiality.

How You Can Help

• Sign the Petition: Add your voice to the call for the removal of Judge Cadet off the bench. SIGN PETITION HERE.

• Speak Out: Share your story to highlight patterns of alleged misconduct.

• Support Reform: Advocate for changes that ensure family courts prioritize fairness for all.

  
  

  

  Judge Chinhayi Cadet: A Gavel That Strikes Harder on Targeted Women

  * This article is based on personal accounts, opinions, and allegations supported by publicly available records and formal complaints. It is intended to advocate for transparency and fairness in the judiciary, not to defame or disparage any individual.