Profile photo of Rise Jones Pichon

Rise Jones Pichon

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
San Jose, CA, United States

About

Following a distinguished judicial career spanning over three decades, this neutral transitioned to private dispute resolution. Her tenure included serving as a judge for the Santa Clara County Superior Court and the Municipal Court, where she presided over a vast array of civil, criminal, and probate matters. She has extensive experience handling complex litigation involving commercial disputes, employment claims, and sensitive family law or probate issues.

Practice Areas

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

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Judge
Santa Clara County Superior Court
Presiding Judge
Santa Clara County Superior Court
Judge
Santa Clara County Municipal Court
Commissioner
Santa Clara County Municipal Court
Deputy Public Defender
Santa Clara County
Office of the County Counsel
Santa Clara County

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent lecturer on probate and estate litigation
  • Contributor to judicial education programs regarding court administration
  • Former Chair, Santa Clara County Court Facilities Committee
  • Speaker at various ADR and legal ethics seminars

Positioning Takeaways

A highly respected former presiding judge with deep roots in the Silicon Valley legal community, specializing in probate, family law, and complex civil litigation.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California

Education

J.D.
Santa Clara University School of Law
1976
B.S.
Santa Clara University
1973

Distinction

She was the first African American woman to be appointed to the bench in Santa Clara County.

Reputation

She is widely regarded by legal professionals for her calm demeanor, thorough preparation, and ability to navigate emotionally charged disputes with patience and legal precision.