Lax, But Fair: Lawyers say James R. Richie brings a lenient air to court but is willing to make tough calls ...Jon Rankin states "He lets us go far beyond what other judges would have allowed."
 

San Rafael shooting case ends in acquittal - A man who shot his ex-girlfriend's nephew in San Rafael was acquitted of assault charges Friday. Edward William Outcalt, 50, claimed self-defense in the shooting, which occurred in July 2010 at his ex-girlfriend's home on Marquard Avenue. Outcalt rented a room in the house, and the woman's 24-year-old nephew lived there as well.
 

Novato woman avoids prison for stabbing ex-boyfriend - Avoiding a potential prison term, a Novato woman was sentenced to community service and probation Wednesday for stabbing her ex-boyfriend in a jealous rage last summer. Lilly Mai Ly, a 49-year-old.  More Info-MarinScope 
 

Judge dismisses some charges in Dillon Beach attack - Four men accused of attacking a pair of teenage campers at Dillon Beach were ordered to stand trial on robbery charges and other counts, but a judge tossed a bundle of related charges this week.

Alleged rapist not fit for trial - A drifter accused of raping a woman near Stinson Beach in August 2005 was found incompetent to stand trial by a Marin jury Friday. Following the verdict, Terry Ray Hawes, 43, will be sent to a state mental hospital until he is deemed fit to face charges in Marin Superior Court.