THE ROBING ROOM

Judge Castillo routinely requires civil litigants to attend a settlement conference early on, but then uses the opportunity to arm-twist the parties to settle (without regard to the merits of the case) or, failing settlement, to agree to consent to the magistrate. I have taken the latter option each time before Judge Castillo. He either has no appreciation regarding how to conduct an effective settlement conference, or he doesn't care. He is arrogant and rude for no apparent reason. Seems quite impressed with himself.