Michigan Judge Faces Misconduct Complaint for Staff Abuse, Case Dismissals

Oakland County Judge Kirsten Nielsen Hartig faces multiple allegations of misconduct from the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission, including mistreating court employees, improperly dismissing cases, and withholding a required psychological evaluation report for six months. The complaint details how Hartig created a "climate of fear" among staff, demanded constant personal availability from employees, and berated personnel while on the bench, even falsely accusing them of financial mismanagement. Hartig also improperly dismissed cases due to scheduling conflicts, actions described by the commission as punitive rather than based on case merits. Chief Judge Travis Reed has removed Hartig from serious cases and suggested further action might be necessary to protect court integrity and public trust. Hartig's spokesperson maintains her commitment to justice and transparency, disputing the commission's claims and emphasizing her decade-long service with integrity. The judge has 14 days to respond to the formal complaint as the investigation continues.