Profile photo of Hon. Henry Pitman (Ret.)

Hon. Henry Pitman (Ret.)

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
New York, NY, United States

About

Before entering private practice, this neutral served for twenty-three years as a United States Magistrate Judge in the Southern District of New York, including a term as Chief Magistrate Judge. His judicial tenure involved managing thousands of cases across diverse legal sectors such as intellectual property, employment, and complex commercial litigation. Prior to his time on the bench, he practiced as an Assistant United States Attorney and worked in private practice focusing on commercial litigation.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Rights Corporate & Finance Employment & Labor Entertainment & Media Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Intellectual Property Personal Injury & Torts Technology & Cyber

Professional Experience

Mediator
Arbitrator
and Special Master
JAMS
2019
United States Magistrate Judge
Southern District of New York
1996–2019
Chief Magistrate Judge
Southern District of New York
2012–2015
Assistant United States Attorney
Southern District of New York
Associate
1985–1990
Lieberman
Rudolph & Falconer
Associate
1990–1996
Chadbourne & Parke
1982–1985
Law Clerk
Hon. Lloyd F. MacMahon
U.S. District Court
Southern District of New York
1980–1982

Publications Leadership

  • Author of numerous judicial opinions regarding discovery disputes and electronically stored information
  • Frequent speaker at CLE programs on federal practice and procedure
  • Panelist for discussions regarding effective mediation strategies in federal court
  • Contributor to various legal publications on intellectual property and employment law developments

Positioning Takeaways

A highly experienced former federal judge with a specialized focus on intellectual property and complex commercial disputes in the New York market.

License & Certifications

  • New York State Bar
  • United States District Court
  • Southern District of New York
  • United States District Court
  • Eastern District of New York
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit

Education

J.D.
Fordham University School of Law
1980
B.A.
Fordham University
1977

Distinction

Served as Chief Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of New York and has authored over 4,000 opinions during his judicial career.

Reputation

He is recognized by legal professionals for his deep understanding of federal procedure, his patience in complex negotiations, and his ability to provide clear, decisive guidance in discovery and settlement matters.