Profile photo of Hon. Frank J. Ochoa (Ret.)

Hon. Frank J. Ochoa (Ret.)

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Santa Barbara, CA, United States

About

Following a judicial career spanning over three decades on the Santa Barbara County Superior Court, this neutral transitioned to private practice in 2015. His extensive background includes presiding over thousands of civil, criminal, and family law matters, as well as serving as a Justice Pro Tem for the California Court of Appeal.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Construction Employment & Labor Estates & Probate Family Law & Divorce Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Judge
Santa Barbara County Superior Court
Justice Pro Tem
California Court of Appeal
Second Appellate District
Presiding Judge
Santa Barbara County Superior Court
Of Counsel
Sanger Swysen & Knight
Principal
Frank J. Ochoa
Dispute Resolution Services

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent lecturer on judicial ethics and alternative dispute resolution
  • Former Chair, Santa Barbara County Law Library Board of Trustees
  • Contributor to various legal periodicals regarding court administration and mediation practices

Positioning Takeaways

A retired Superior Court judge with 32 years of bench experience offering high-level dispute resolution services across diverse practice areas in California.

License & Certifications

  • California State Bar Admission
  • Certified Mediator

Education

Juris Doctor
University of California, Davis School of Law
1975
Bachelor of Arts
University of California, Santa Barbara
1972

Distinction

One of the longest-serving judges in Santa Barbara County history with significant experience in both trial and appellate levels.

Reputation

He is recognized for his calm judicial temperament and his ability to facilitate resolutions in highly contentious and complex legal disputes.