Profile photo of Lorna A. Alksne

Lorna A. Alksne

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
San Diego, CA, United States

About

Hon. Lorna A. Alksne (Ret.) entered private practice following a distinguished 20-year career on the San Diego Superior Court, where she served as Presiding Judge. Her judicial tenure was marked by extensive work in the Family Law Division, including five years as the Supervising Judge. She has presided over thousands of family law matters involving complex financial issues, high-conflict custody disputes, and intricate property divisions. Before her elevation to the bench, she served as a Superior Court Commissioner and practiced as a private attorney specializing in civil litigation and family law.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Estates & Probate Family Law & Divorce

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
2022
Presiding Judge
San Diego County Superior Court
2020–2021
Assistant Presiding Judge
San Diego County Superior Court
Judge
2018–2019
San Diego County Superior Court
2005–2022
Supervising Judge
Family Law Division
San Diego County Superior Court (2008–2012
2016–2017)
Commissioner
San Diego County Superior Court
2001–2005
Private Practice Attorney
San Diego
1992–2001

Publications Leadership

  • Author, 'Using ADR in Family Law Cases Involving Digital Assets,' JAMS Solutions
  • Speaker, 'Complex Financial Issues in Family Law,' CJER
  • Faculty, California Judicial College
  • Chair, San Diego Superior Court Family Law Advisory Committee
  • Presenter, 'Navigating High-Conflict Custody Disputes,' San Diego County Bar Association

Positioning Takeaways

A highly respected former Presiding Judge with two decades of judicial experience, specializing in the resolution of complex family law and private wealth disputes.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California
  • Certified Family Law Specialist (formerly)

Education

J.D.
University of San Diego School of Law
1992
B.A.
University of California, San Diego
1988

Distinction

Served as the Presiding Judge of the San Diego Superior Court during the COVID-19 pandemic, overseeing the transition to virtual court operations.

Reputation

Recognized by legal professionals for her deep expertise in family law and her ability to resolve highly emotional and financially complex disputes with patience and judicial insight.