Note: The Judicial Tenure Commission did not respond for comment.
In an extraordinarily rare but necessary move, the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission has authorized formal proceedings against Judge Bradley S. Knoll, Chief Judge of the Holland, Michigan 58th District Court following allegations of domestic violence and other misconduct.
The case shines a harsh light on a judicial system that often demands integrity from the public while inconsistently holding its own accountable.
According to WZZM 13’s report, the commission’s complaint includes allegations that Judge Knoll was arrested for forcibly grabbing his grandson’s face, and assaulting his wife when she tried to intervene.
He was not suspended while charges were pending.
Punishment Without Teeth
It was only after Judge Knoll’s sentencing that the Judicial Tenure Commission stepped in with a public complaint. This is in stark contrast to what happens to defendants when a case begins. Most of the time, their lives are completely disrupted and potentially ruined, even if they are found innocent.
According to public records and articles, his wife, Shawn was at one time considered for an assessor position with Park Township.
Knoll’s current six-year term expires in December 2026. He is not eligible to serve another term, as judicial candidates must be under the age of 70; Knoll turned 70 in 2021.
After Knoll completes his four months of probation, the charge will be removed from his record. Even if the charges stuck, he is well into retirement age, and would be relatively unscathed from collateral consequences of conviction.
Astonishingly, even after receiving a misdemeanor conviction and being under investigation, he is still presiding over cases.
Michigan Lags Behind in Judicial Accountability and Oversight
Michigan lags behind in accountability and transparency, providing little confidence when it comes to addressing judicial misconduct and abuse of power. Systems of accountability for judges often operate behind opaque walls and most complaints are dismissed quietly.
Discipline, if it happens at all, is rare and often mild.
The Judicial Tenure Commission’s willingness to move forward is significant, considering longstanding concerns regarding the JTC’s ability to address judicial misconduct.
When Judges behave badly, the public deserves transparency so they can make informed decisions. Like any defendant, the consequences must also reflect the seriousness of the judge’s poor actions. This is crucial not only for accountability, but for all survivors of domestic violence who rely on the courts for protection and justice.
