Profile photo of Jamie Jacobs-May

Jamie Jacobs-May

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
San Jose, CA, United States

About

With a career spanning over three decades in the legal field, this neutral served as a judge on the Santa Clara County Superior Court for 21 years, including a term as Presiding Judge. Since entering private practice in 2011, she has focused her practice on mediation and arbitration, particularly in complex employment disputes involving harassment, discrimination, and wage and hour claims. Her background includes extensive work in civil litigation, family law, and presiding over numerous jury and court trials.

Practice Areas

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

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Judge
Santa Clara County Superior Court
Presiding Judge
Santa Clara County Superior Court
Assistant City Attorney
City of San Jose
Deputy County Counsel
Santa Clara County
Deputy Public Defender
Santa Clara County

Publications Leadership

  • Contributor to the California Judges Benchbook
  • Frequent lecturer on employment law and mediation strategies for various bar associations
  • Former Chair of the Santa Clara County Superior Court's Personnel Committee

Positioning Takeaways

A former Presiding Judge with deep roots in the Silicon Valley legal community, she offers authoritative expertise in employment and complex civil matters.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California

Education

J.D.
University of California, Berkeley School of Law
1974
B.A.
University of California, Berkeley
1970

Distinction

Served as the Presiding Judge of one of California's largest trial courts and is widely recognized for her expertise in resolving high-stakes employment and civil rights litigation.

Reputation

She is regarded by legal professionals as a persistent and prepared neutral who maintains a calm demeanor while effectively navigating emotionally charged disputes. Peers often note her ability to quickly identify core legal issues and her commitment to seeing difficult settlements through to completion.