Profile photo of Patricia M. Lucas

Patricia M. Lucas

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
San Jose, CA, United States

About

Patricia M. Lucas served as a judge on the Santa Clara County Superior Court for nearly twenty years, including a term as presiding judge. Her judicial tenure involved overseeing complex civil litigation, high-stakes intellectual property disputes, and employment matters. Before her appointment to the bench, she spent over two decades as a trial lawyer focusing on commercial litigation and professional liability. She has presided over numerous jury and court trials, bringing extensive expertise in case management and settlement negotiations to her dispute resolution practice.

Practice Areas

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

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS (Present)
Judge
Santa Clara County Superior Court
2003–2022
Presiding Judge
Santa Clara County Superior Court
2017–2018
Supervising Judge
Civil Division
Santa Clara County Superior Court
2015–2016
Litigation Partner
Fenwick & West LLP
Shareholder
Brown & Bain (now Perkins Coie)
Associate
Brobeck
Phleger & Harrison

Publications Leadership

  • Speaker on various topics including trade secret litigation, electronic discovery, and judicial ethics
  • Contributor to judicial education programs through the California Center for Judicial Education and Research (CJER)
  • Past Chair, Santa Clara County Superior Court’s Technology Committee

Positioning Takeaways

A veteran Silicon Valley jurist with a strong background in intellectual property and complex commercial disputes, suitable for high-stakes technology and employment cases.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California

Education

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

Distinction

Served as the Presiding Judge of one of California's largest trial courts and has deep roots in the Silicon Valley legal community.

Reputation

She is regarded by legal professionals as a highly prepared and analytical neutral who possesses a deep understanding of complex technical and legal issues. Parties frequently note her ability to manage difficult personalities and facilitate resolutions in emotionally charged or legally dense disputes.