Justice with Fairness, Humanity, and Constitutional Duty.
Judge Der Yang’s vision of justice is shaped by a life spent at the margins of safety and uncertainty. She believes justice must give every person the opportunity to be heard, treated with dignity, and judged according to the law.
Justice Must See the Whole Human Being.
Justice is not abstract. It is lived. It is shaped by the real experiences of real people—and by the responsibility to respond with wisdom, fairness, and care.
I believe in a justice system that sees the whole human being, honors their story, and gives every person the opportunity to rise.
Listening Is the First Step Toward Fairness.
Every person deserves to be heard—regardless of the charge, the dispute, or the language they speak.
Fairness begins with listening. It requires understanding the historical, social, and circumstantial forces that shape people’s choices and the systems that shape their outcomes.
GUIDED BY SERVICE
Courtroom Guided by Clarity and Care.
EVERY VOICE MATTERS
I listen to everyone and ensure each person is treated with respect and attention.
FAIRNESS REQUIRES CONSISTENCY
The law must be applied evenly, without favoritism, for the same reasons, in the same way.
CONTEXT MATTERS
Understanding a person's story leads to fairer outcomes and smarter solutions.
DIGNITY REMAINS ESSENTIAL
Every person appears in court with inherent worth and the right to be treated with dignity.
"Sentiment without substance is not justice. Knowledge applied with care and consistency is."
— JUDGE DER YANG —
The Law Is a Shield, Not Merely a Sword.
The Constitution exists to protect rights, ensure due process, and uphold justice for all—not to punish without purpose. I uphold the law with fidelity because the rule of law is the foundation of freedom and a fair society.
Evidence, Research, and Careful Judgment.
Judicial decisions must be rooted in evidence and law. I rely on sentencing studies, treatment outcomes, and recidivism data to inform decisions—applying knowledge with care, not assumptions.
Accountability and Treatment Can Work Together.
Accountability is essential. So is the recognition that trauma, mental health, and poverty can limit choices and increase involvement in the justice system.
I support solutions that hold people accountable while addressing the root causes of harm—because real justice aims to reduce harm, prevent future harm, and build safer communities for everyone.
LISTENING BEFORE DECIDING
I take the time to listen fully and understand before making a decision.
EVIDENCE OVER EMOTION
Decisions are grounded in facts, law, and research—not assumptions or public pressure.
DIGNITY IN EVERY CASE
Every person deserves to be seen, respected, and treated with humanity.
Support a Vision of Justice Rooted in Fairness.
Join me in building a court system that is fair, consistent, compassionate, and true to the Constitution.