Profile photo of Harlan A. Martin

Harlan A. Martin

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Dallas, TX, United States

About

With a career spanning over four decades in the legal field, this neutral has dedicated more than 25 years exclusively to alternative dispute resolution. He has successfully presided over thousands of mediations and arbitrations, handling a diverse array of complex multi-party disputes. His background includes serving as a state district court judge and practicing as a trial attorney, providing him with a deep understanding of both the judicial process and the nuances of high-stakes litigation across various industries.

Practice Areas

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

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Judge
2001
192nd District Court
Dallas County
1983–1986
Trial Attorney
Private Practice (1967–1982
1987–2000)

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent speaker on mediation and arbitration strategies for the Dallas Bar Association
  • Contributor to various ADR-focused continuing legal education programs in Texas
  • Former Chair of the Dallas Bar Association ADR Section

Positioning Takeaways

This neutral offers a rare combination of former judicial insight and over a quarter-century of full-time ADR experience. He is particularly well-suited for high-stakes, multi-party commercial and personal injury cases where a deep understanding of Texas law and trial dynamics is required.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of Texas
  • United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit

Education

J.D.
Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
1967
B.A.
North Texas State University
1964

Distinction

Consistently recognized as a top-tier neutral in Dallas for over a decade, combining judicial experience with a long-standing tenure at JAMS.

Reputation

He is widely regarded by legal professionals for his ability to navigate highly contentious and legally intricate matters with a calm, analytical approach. Peers and counsel frequently cite his extensive experience in both the courtroom and the mediation suite as a key factor in his effectiveness at resolving complex commercial and tort disputes.