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Kevin R. Culhane

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Sacramento, CA, United States
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About

Before entering private practice, this neutral served as a judge on the Sacramento County Superior Court for over 15 years, including a term as Presiding Judge. His judicial tenure followed a 33-year career as a trial attorney where he specialized in complex civil litigation and professional liability. He has presided over hundreds of jury and court trials and is recognized for his ability to manage high-stakes, multi-party disputes across a wide range of legal disciplines.

Practice Areas

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

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS (Present)
Judge
Sacramento County Superior Court
2008–2023
Presiding Judge
Sacramento County Superior Court
Partner
2016–2017
Hansen
Culhane
Kaplon & Jallo (Prior to 2008)
Adjunct Professor of Law
University of the Pacific
McGeorge School of Law
Member
1977–2008
Judicial Council of California
2017–2020

Publications Leadership

  • Served as a member of the Judicial Council of California from 2017 to 2020
  • Held the position of Chair for the Judicial Council’s Internal Audit Committee
  • Acted as Vice-Chair of the Executive and Planning Committee for the Judicial Council
  • Contributed as a member of the Governing Committee for the Center for Judicial Education and Research (CJER)
  • Taught as an Adjunct Professor at McGeorge School of Law for over three decades
  • Frequent lecturer on civil procedure, trial practice, and legal ethics for various bar associations and judicial education programs

Positioning Takeaways

A seasoned former Presiding Judge with extensive experience in both the public judiciary and private practice, specializing in the resolution of complex, multi-party civil disputes.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California
  • Certified Specialist
  • Civil Trial Advocacy
  • National Board of Trial Advocacy
  • Certified Specialist
  • Professional Negligence Law
  • American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys

Education

LL.M.
Stanford Law School
J.D.
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
B.A.
University of California, Berkeley

Distinction

One of the few neutrals to have served as both a Presiding Judge of a major metropolitan court and a certified specialist in multiple areas of civil trial law.

Reputation

He is highly regarded by legal professionals for his deep understanding of California civil procedure, his even-tempered judicial demeanor, and his effectiveness in settling difficult cases that involve complex legal or emotional dynamics.

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