David A. Thompson

Justice Thompson served for fifteen years as an Associate Justice on the California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division Three, following his appointment in 2012. Prior to his appellate tenure, he spent fifteen years as a judge on the Orange County Superior Court, where he presided over a wide range of civil and criminal matters, including a five-year assignment in the Civil Panel. His legal career began with over twenty years in private practice, focusing on complex business and commercial litigation, including construction and real estate disputes. Throughout his judicial career, he authored more than 1,500 opinions and participated in over 4,500 appellate decisions, covering nearly every area of California law.

Justice Thompson offers a unique perspective derived from decades of experience as both a trial judge and an appellate justice, making him highly effective in evaluating case outcomes and facilitating settlements in complex litigation.

Authored over 1,500 appellate opinions and presided over thousands of cases across both trial and appellate court levels.

Recognized by legal professionals for his deep analytical approach, thorough preparation, and a temperament suited for resolving complex legal disputes through mediation and arbitration.