Profile photo of Hon. Richard J. McAdams (Ret.)

Hon. Richard J. McAdams (Ret.)

Arbitrator Mediator Neutral Evaluator Special Master
San Jose, CA, United States

About

Before entering private practice, this neutral served as an Associate Justice on the California Court of Appeal, Sixth Appellate District, for eight years. His judicial career also includes over twenty years on the trial bench as a judge for the Santa Cruz County Superior and Municipal Courts. Prior to his appointments, he spent a decade in private legal practice and public legal services, developing a broad foundation in civil litigation and dispute resolution.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Civil Rights Employment & Labor Family Law & Divorce Government & Administrative Insurance Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Associate Justice
California Court of Appeal
Sixth Appellate District
Judge
2003–2011
Santa Cruz County Superior Court
Judge
1998–2003
Santa Cruz County Municipal Court
1977–1998
Private Practice Attorney
Attorney
1973–1977
Legal Aid Society of Santa Cruz County
1970–1973
Associate Attorney
Jarvis
Miller & Flower
1969–1970

Publications Leadership

  • Contributor to various California Continuing Education of the Bar (CEB) publications
  • Frequent lecturer on appellate law and judicial ethics for the Center for Judicial Education and Research (CJER)
  • Past Chair of the California Judges Association Ethics Committee
  • Author of numerous published appellate opinions covering diverse areas of California law

Positioning Takeaways

This neutral offers a comprehensive judicial perspective derived from decades of service in both trial and appellate courts. His background is particularly suited for high-stakes appellate consulting and the resolution of multi-faceted civil disputes requiring a nuanced understanding of California law.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California (1969)

Education

J.D.
University of California, Hastings College of the Law
1968
B.A.
University of California, Berkeley
1965

Distinction

Extensive experience across all levels of the California judiciary, from municipal and superior courts to the Court of Appeal.

Reputation

He is recognized for his balanced temperament, deep legal knowledge, and a persistent approach to settling complex disputes. Peers and counsel often note his ability to navigate sensitive emotional dynamics in family and employment matters while maintaining rigorous legal standards.