Profile photo of Hon. Philip S. Gutierrez (Ret.)

Hon. Philip S. Gutierrez (Ret.)

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Los Angeles, CA, United States

About

Before entering private practice, this neutral served for over twenty-seven years as a judicial officer, including seventeen years on the United States District Court for the Central District of California where he concluded his tenure as Chief Judge. His judicial career also includes nine years on the Los Angeles County Superior Court. He has presided over approximately 300 trials and managed thousands of cases involving diverse legal issues such as intellectual property, securities litigation, and complex class actions.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Civil Rights Corporate & Finance Employment & Labor Entertainment & Media Government & Administrative Intellectual Property

Professional Experience

Chief Judge
United States District Court for the Central District of California
Judge
2020–2024
United States District Court for the Central District of California
Judge
2007–2020
Los Angeles County Superior Court
Partner
1997–2007
Cotkin & Collins
Associate
1988–1997
Neumeyer & Boyd
Associate
1986–1988
Kern and Wooley
1985–1986

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent speaker on federal civil procedure and intellectual property law
  • Contributor to various legal education programs for the Federal Judicial Center
  • Leadership roles within the Ninth Circuit Judicial Council

Positioning Takeaways

A highly experienced former federal Chief Judge with extensive expertise in class actions and intellectual property, suitable for complex multi-party disputes.

License & Certifications

  • California State Bar

Education

J.D.
UCLA School of Law
1984
B.A.
University of Notre Dame
1981

Distinction

Served as the Chief Judge of the nation's most populous federal judicial district.

Reputation

He is recognized for his deep understanding of complex federal litigation and is noted for his efficient management of high-stakes trials and settlements.