Profile photo of Hon. Ken Kawaichi (Ret.)

Hon. Ken Kawaichi (Ret.)

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
San Francisco, CA, United States

About

Following a distinguished twenty-eight-year tenure on the Alameda County Superior and Municipal Courts, this neutral has transitioned into a full-time dispute resolution practice. His judicial career involved presiding over thousands of cases, including complex litigation, class actions, and coordinated proceedings. He is recognized for his expertise in managing multi-party disputes and has served as a Special Master in significant environmental and construction matters. His background includes extensive experience in handling high-stakes commercial, employment, and professional liability cases.

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
Alameda County Superior Court
Judge
Oakland-Piedmont-Emeryville Municipal Court
Partner
Yonemura & Kawaichi

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent lecturer on complex litigation management and ADR processes
  • Contributor to various judicial education programs and legal publications
  • Former Chair, CJER Civil Law and Procedure Institute

Positioning Takeaways

A seasoned former judge with nearly three decades of bench experience, specializing in the resolution of intricate multi-party commercial and environmental disputes.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California

Education

J.D.
University of California, Berkeley School of Law
B.A.
Pomona College

Distinction

Renowned for his ability to manage exceptionally complex, multi-party litigation and coordinated proceedings with a calm and analytical approach.

Reputation

He is highly regarded by legal professionals for his patience, deep legal knowledge, and effective settlement skills in both mediation and arbitration settings.