Profile photo of Curtis E. von Kann

Curtis E. von Kann

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Washington, DC, United States

About

Curtis E. von Kann has spent over two decades as a neutral in private practice, following a distinguished eleven-year tenure as a judge on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. His background includes extensive work as a civil litigator and partner at a major law firm, where he handled diverse commercial cases. He has presided over hundreds of domestic and international arbitrations, mediations, and special master assignments involving high-stakes financial and legal issues.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Construction Employment & Labor Entertainment & Media Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Intellectual Property Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Judge
1998
Superior Court of the District of Columbia
Partner
1987–1998
Hogan & Hartson (now Hogan Lovells)
Associate
1979–1987
Hogan & Hartson
1969–1979

Publications Leadership

  • Author of 'How to Win an Arbitration,' published in The Practical Litigator
  • Frequent speaker on advanced arbitration techniques and ethics at ABA and JAMS seminars
  • Contributor to various ADR journals on the topic of electronic discovery and special masters
  • Leadership roles within the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution

Positioning Takeaways

A seasoned former judge with over 25 years of ADR experience, specializing in high-value commercial and international disputes.

License & Certifications

  • District of Columbia Bar
  • Fellow
  • College of Commercial Arbitrators

Education

J.D.
Harvard Law School
1969
A.B.
Harvard College
1964

Distinction

Combines judicial experience with a deep understanding of complex commercial litigation and international arbitration protocols.

Reputation

He is highly regarded for his ability to manage complex multi-party disputes with efficiency and a deep mastery of the legal issues involved. Counsel frequently note his thorough preparation and fair-minded approach to both arbitration and mediation.