Profile photo of Charles Margines

Charles Margines

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Orange County, CA, United States

About

Following a judicial career spanning 27 years, including service as the Presiding Judge of the Orange County Superior Court, this neutral entered private practice in 2021. His extensive background includes presiding over more than 100 jury trials and thousands of court trials and hearings across diverse legal sectors such as complex civil litigation, family law, and felony criminal matters. Before his elevation to the bench, he practiced as a criminal defense attorney for 15 years, handling a wide array of cases from misdemeanors to capital offenses.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Rights Construction Employment & Labor Family Law & Divorce Government & Administrative Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Judge
2021
Orange County Superior Court
1998–2020
Presiding Judge
Orange County Superior Court
2016–2017
Assistant Presiding Judge
Orange County Superior Court
Judge
2014–2015
Central Orange County Municipal Court
1993–1998
Presiding Judge
Central Orange County Municipal Court (1996)
Private Practice
Criminal Defense
1978–1993
Deputy Public Defender
Orange County Public Defender’s Office
1975–1978

Publications Leadership

  • Served as Presiding Judge of the Orange County Superior Court (2016–2017)
  • Chaired the Orange County Superior Court Executive Committee
  • Member of the Judicial Council of California (2015–2018)
  • Frequent speaker on judicial ethics and court administration for the California District Attorneys Association and various bar associations
  • Contributor to the California Center for Judicial Education and Research (CJER)

Positioning Takeaways

This neutral is best suited for complex civil and family law disputes where a deep understanding of court procedures and a steady, experienced hand are required to reach a resolution.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California

Education

J.D.
UCLA School of Law
1974
B.A., English
UCLA
1970

Distinction

Served as the Presiding Judge of one of the largest trial court systems in the United States, overseeing 144 judicial officers and 1,500 employees.

Reputation

He is recognized by legal professionals for his calm judicial temperament, thorough preparation, and his ability to manage highly emotional and complex disputes with patience and impartiality.