Profile photo of Robert W. Hight

Robert W. Hight

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Sacramento, CA, United States

About

Robert W. Hight served as a judge on the Sacramento County Superior Court for over 15 years, including a term as Presiding Judge. His judicial tenure involved presiding over a wide array of complex civil litigation, ranging from environmental disputes to high-stakes commercial cases. Before his appointment to the bench, he spent 25 years in private practice as a trial attorney, focusing on personal injury, professional negligence, and business disputes. He also served as the Executive Officer of the California State Lands Commission, where he managed significant state resources and environmental policy.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Construction Employment & Labor Energy & Environment Government & Administrative Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS (Present)
Judge
Sacramento County Superior Court
2003–2018
Presiding Judge
Sacramento County Superior Court
2014–2015
Executive Officer
California State Lands Commission
1993–2003
Chief Counsel
California State Lands Commission
1979–1993
Private Practice Trial Attorney
1965–1990

Publications Leadership

  • Speaker, Environmental Law Conferences regarding CEQA and State Lands issues
  • Presenter, Sacramento County Bar Association on Civil Trial Practice
  • Leadership role as Presiding Judge of the Sacramento County Superior Court (2014-2015)
  • Former Chair, Judicial Council’s Trial Court Presiding Judges Advisory Committee

Positioning Takeaways

His background combines extensive trial experience, a long judicial career in a major California court, and specialized executive experience in state environmental and land management.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California

Education

J.D.
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
1965
B.A.
University of California, Los Angeles
1962

Distinction

Unique expertise in California State Lands and CEQA issues derived from serving as the Executive Officer of the California State Lands Commission.

Reputation

He is regarded by legal professionals as a fair and knowledgeable jurist who possesses a deep understanding of complex statutory frameworks and a practical approach to settlement.