Profile photo of Ivy S. Bernhardson

Ivy S. Bernhardson

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Minneapolis, MN, United States

About

Before entering private practice, this neutral served as a judge on the Hennepin County District Court for twenty years, including a term as Chief Judge. Her judicial tenure involved presiding over a wide array of complex civil litigation, including multi-district cases and class actions. Prior to her time on the bench, she spent over two decades in private practice and as in-house counsel, focusing on corporate law, governance, and regulatory matters.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Employment & Labor Estates & Probate Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Chief Judge
Fourth Judicial District (Hennepin County)
Minnesota
District Court Judge
Fourth Judicial District (Hennepin County)
Minnesota
Associate General Counsel
General Mills
Inc.
Vice President and Secretary
General Mills
Inc.
Attorney
Private Practice

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent lecturer on civil litigation and judicial administration
  • Author of various articles regarding corporate governance and ADR processes
  • Leadership roles within the Minnesota Judicial Branch

Positioning Takeaways

A former Chief Judge with a background in both corporate legal departments and the bench, offering a balanced perspective for complex commercial and employment disputes.

License & Certifications

  • Minnesota State Bar

Education

J.D.
University of Minnesota Law School
B.A.
Gustavus Adolphus College

Distinction

Served as Chief Judge of Minnesota's largest trial court and has extensive experience handling complex, multi-party commercial disputes.

Reputation

She is regarded by legal professionals as a fair and highly prepared neutral who leverages her deep judicial experience to facilitate resolutions in high-stakes litigation.