Profile photo of Rebecca Westerfield

Rebecca Westerfield

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
San Francisco, CA, United States

About

With over 25 years of experience in private practice, this neutral has presided over thousands of domestic and international cases. Her background includes serving as a judge on the Jefferson District and Circuit Courts in Kentucky, where she handled a wide range of civil and criminal matters. She is recognized for her expertise in resolving high-stakes disputes involving multi-party litigation, class actions, and complex commercial issues.

Practice Areas

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

Professional Experience

Mediator
Arbitrator
and Special Master
JAMS
Judge
1992
Jefferson Circuit Court
Kentucky
Judge
1987–1992
Jefferson District Court
Kentucky
Partner
1983–1987
Westerfield and Singler
1976–1983
Adjunct Professor
University of Louisville School of Law
Adjunct Professor
Golden Gate University School of Law

Publications Leadership

  • Contributor to 'The Master Mediator' column in ADR World
  • Author of various articles on mediation ethics and complex case management
  • Frequent speaker at ABA and State Bar of California conferences
  • Former President, Kentucky Circuit Judges Association
  • Faculty member for JAMS Institute training programs

Positioning Takeaways

A highly seasoned neutral with a judicial background, she is best suited for complex, multi-party commercial and employment disputes requiring a persistent and evaluative approach.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California
  • Kentucky Bar Association (Inactive)

Education

J.D.
University of Kentucky College of Law
1976
B.A.
University of Kentucky
1972

Distinction

Consistently ranked as a top-tier mediator by Chambers USA and Who's Who Legal for over a decade.

Reputation

Known among legal professionals for her persistence, preparation, and ability to handle emotionally charged or legally intricate disputes. Peers and clients frequently cite her evaluative skills and her talent for finding creative paths to settlement in seemingly intractable cases.