MEET THE JUDGE
A Proven Record of Justice
Pat Connolly has spent his career protecting the public and upholding the rule of law. Before becoming a judge, he built his reputation as one of Los Angeles County’s most aggressive homicide and gang prosecutors, successfully trying complex murder cases and holding violent criminals accountable.
Among the most high-profile trials of that era was his prosecution in the murder of an off-duty sheriff’s deputy — a case that demonstrated the commitment that has defined Connolly’s career: protecting victims, enforcing the law, and seeing justice through to the end.
Connolly’s commitment to public safety runs deep. He comes from a family dedicated to law enforcement. His father served as a Chief of Police, and his brother currently serves in law enforcement, continuing that tradition of public service.
Independent and Principled
For more than 17 years, Connolly has served with distinction as a judge on the Los Angeles County Superior Court. He is respected by prosecutors and defense attorneys alike for his fairness, efficiency, and ability to communicate effectively with all in his courtroom, including defendants. Known as a hands-on trial judge, he runs a disciplined courtroom, keeps cases moving, and makes decisions firmly grounded in the law.
He manages the master calendar at the Compton courthouse, ensuring cases progress smoothly and are handled fairly, and presides over Community Collaborative Court, commonly known as an alternative to incarceration court. Many of the most difficult and violent cases appear before him, and he is known for treating everyone in his courtroom with compassion and respect. He takes the time to ensure all parties understand the process, particularly those facing challenging circumstances.
Lawyers who appear before him know they are in a courtroom where preparation matters, the law is applied fairly, and every case receives the careful attention it deserves.
Family and Community
Outside the courtroom, Pat is a devoted husband and father. He and his wife are raising two young sons, and much of his time away from the bench is spent with his family and coaching youth flag football.
Football has long been part of Pat’s life. Earlier in his career, he served as the quarterback for Team USA’s flag football team, helping lead the team to four world championships.
Why Pat Connolly Is Running
Judge Connolly believes the courtroom is not a place for passivity. It is a place for judgment, accountability, and the fair and faithful application of the law.
That belief — shaped by decades of experience as a prosecutor and judge, and a lifetime around law enforcement — is why he is running: to continue serving the community with integrity, independence, and a deep commitment to justice.
