Gus T. May

After hearing about and witnessing so much corruption out of Los Angeles County and particularly this courthouse, rarely am I compelled to leave a positive review. This is the exception. After being in front of Judge Gus May for several years now on a case that has been in litigation far too long due to an extremely unscrupulous attorney, I am so impressed with his demeanor, patience and fairness particularly when going against well-known attorneys in his courthouse who may be used to getting their ways in spite of facts and evidence. Judge May is a rare exception and although I have heard some negative comments about him, I cannot agree with those negative comments. I am extremely impressed with how he handles matters with all of the cases I have heard him overseeing. He actually has a better bedside manner than I would have if I were in his shoes with some of the things I've heard on some of his cases. He is an asset to this courthouse.

Our experience with Judge Gus T. May was extremely troubling. During a probate case involving a bar/restaurant business held in trust, we raised serious concerns about unreported cash income—a situation that clearly constitutes tax fraud under both state and federal law. We specifically questioned where the business’s cash revenue was going, as none of it appeared in the financial accountings. Despite presenting this issue directly to the judge, he showed no concern, asked no follow-up questions, and took no action to address what appeared to be deliberate financial concealment. The omission of cash income continued in future accountings without any scrutiny or acknowledgment from Judge May. It was deeply disappointing to see such a blatant issue of potential tax fraud ignored in a courtroom setting.

This judge is a tyrant. Routinely admonishes attorneys for the smallest thing. Will hit attorneys with substantial monetary sanctions, even when an attorney fails to appear because the clerk did not send notice. Paper him whenever you can.