Oakland Judge Continues Work Amid Mental Disability Accusation

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Oakland County Judge Kirsten Nielsen Hartig has continued handling cases, including a return to work on March 27, despite ongoing public misconduct hearings and an accusation that she has a mental disability that could make her unfit to serve. The 52-year-old judge is fighting a slew of accusations from the state's Judicial Tenure Commission, including bullying courthouse staff, improperly dismissing cases, and making false statements. Her lawyer has framed the matter as retaliation against a judge seeking reform.

Why it matters

The case raises questions about how the judicial system handles accusations of misconduct and mental unfitness against sitting judges, and whether proper safeguards are in place to protect the public when such allegations arise.

The details

The misconduct hearings against Judge Hartig wrapped up on March 25, with plans for her to return to work that Friday as her case continues behind the scenes with the Judicial Tenure Commission. Two neuropsychologists offered contrasting testimony on whether Hartig has a mild neurocognitive disorder that could be caused by a form of dementia. The judge is accused of violating court rules, bullying staff, improperly dismissing cases, withholding a psychological report, and making false statements. Her lawyer has framed the matter as retaliation against a judge seeking reform.

• The misconduct hearings against Judge Hartig wrapped up on March 25, 2026.
• Judge Hartig returned to work on March 27, 2026.
• Judge Hartig was handling cases on March 31, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The findings of the neutral, retired Marquette County Judge Jennifer Mazzuchi, who oversaw the misconduct hearings, will be issued to the Judicial Tenure Commission. The commission will then review the findings, potentially hear additional arguments, and decide whether to issue a recommendation of sanctions to the Michigan Supreme Court.