Darryl Genis
Paul Wellman (file)

High-profile defense attorney Darryl Genis was found in contempt of court by Judge Jean Dandona for speaking disparagingly and disrespectfully of his opposing counsel and fined $1,000. Genis, who specializes in DUI cases, reportedly called prosecuting attorney Hannah Lucy “a little girl” as the two were leaving Dandona’s courtroom. Though the judge offered Genis an opportunity to explain himself — and to apologize — she ultimately deemed his apology “disingenuous and insincere.” Genis has locked horns a number of times with Santa Barbara judges over courthouse manners and conduct. Judges George Eskin and Frank Ochoa, for example, have declined to hear cases in which he’s involved. The size of Dandona’s fine will require Genis to report himself to the State Bar for review. Genis did not respond to multiple invitations for comment.

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