Message from Presiding Judge Maria D. Hernandez:

I’m saddened to report the passing of our friend and colleague, retired Commissioner Creighton B. Laz, on Saturday, May 11, 2024. Commissioner Laz graduated in 1982 from Southwestern School of Law, earning his Juris Doctorate, and was admitted to the California State Bar in June 1983. Commissioner Laz was a gifted athlete, having a brief career as a professional kick boxer appearing on ESPN during the early 80’s. He worked as an attorney in private practice specializing in criminal matters from 1989 to 2016, handling felony and misdemeanor cases involving embezzlement, white collar crime, homicide, domestic violence, election code violence, burglary, robbery, and narcotics in Newport Beach, California, and prior to that served as a Deputy District Attorney in the Orange County District Attorney's Office from 1984 to 1989. He also served on multiple court appointed indigent defense panels. On October 31, 2016, he was elected Commissioner and served with distinction until his retirement on May 13, 2022.

Commissioner Laz will be fondly remembered for his compassionate commitment to favoring cooperation over confrontation and always ensuring fairness for everyone who appeared before him in court. He will be greatly missed by those of us who knew him and valued his friendship. During this challenging time, we extend our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to Commissioner Laz’ wife, Lisa, and two daughters, Amanda, and Nicole.

Funeral services are currently being arranged to honor and celebrate the life of this esteemed colleague and will be shared once scheduled.

With heartfelt sympathy,