Dont know if its a conflict of interest. But is there some sort of confidentiality to the case and the sole determination of the judge to make that any decission.

Who is to say his son is an expert in the field. His son may not have a clue or even be privy to the specifics behind the case.

Son or not, I would believe that there is some sort of process that must be followed in which the Plaintif and the defendant would have to agree as to who would be allowed and even qualified to contribute to the judges decission making.

I dont trust California courts or politicians.

Just my opinion