JUDGE CURTIS KARNOW REPORT CARD
Curtis Karnow was appointed to the Superior Court in February 2005 by former Governor Schwarzenegger. Judge Karnow earned his B.A. from Harvard University in 1974 and his J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1977. Judge Karnow began his legal career as a law clerk for the Federal District Court in Pennsylvania. He then joined the Office of the U.S. Attorney of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. After going into private practice, Judge Karnow specialized in securities and anti-trust class action cases. He also worked extensively as an intellectual property litigator, focusing on computer and internet law.
Grade: INSUFFICIENT INFORMATION TO GRADE
Survey Rating: Few trial attorneys are familiar with Judge Karnow due to his civil law assignments.
Refused to answer any questions posed to judges regarding voter education, appeals of their decisions, published writings, judicial application, etc.
Case History: Judge Karnow issued no orders on narcotics sales cases during the period of our study.
Example: None.
Comments from Court Observers:
“Kind, incredibly smart and knowledgeable, generous with his time, provides great deference to parties.”
Appeals: No relevant appeals.
Media reports: None relating to his criminal law record.
Two rulings in favor of CCSF during its 2014-2017 accreditation crisis:
Not specifically about Karnow, but quotes him extensively regarding judicial elections:
Article criticizing Karnow for ruling against evicted tenant:
Ruling to bundle cases against PG&E for role in 2017 wildfires: