Profile photo of William J. Cahill, Esq.

William J. Cahill, Esq.

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
San Francisco, CA, United States

About

William J. Cahill, Esq. has spent over two decades as a neutral in private practice, following a distinguished nine-year tenure as a judge on the San Francisco Superior Court. During his time on the bench, he presided over the Law and Motion department and handled a wide array of complex civil litigation. Before his judicial appointment, he spent 20 years as a trial lawyer, specializing in complex business, construction, and insurance disputes. His extensive background as both a judge and a practitioner allows him to effectively resolve high-stakes matters across diverse legal sectors.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Construction Corporate & Finance Employment & Labor Energy & Environment Entertainment & Media Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Intellectual Property Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Judge
2000
San Francisco Superior Court
Partner
1991–2000
Murphy
Weir & Butler
Partner
1988–1991
Dinkelspiel & Dinkelspiel
Associate
1977–1988
Dinkelspiel & Dinkelspiel
1971–1977

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent speaker on mediation and arbitration strategies at various legal forums
  • Author of articles regarding complex case management and settlement techniques in civil litigation
  • Former Chair of the San Francisco Superior Court's Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee

Positioning Takeaways

A seasoned neutral with a deep judicial background, specializing in the resolution of complex, multi-party commercial and civil disputes.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California

Education

J.D.
University of California, Hastings College of the Law
1970
B.A.
University of California, Berkeley
1967

Distinction

Combines nearly 30 years of judicial and ADR experience with a 20-year career as a trial attorney in complex commercial litigation.

Reputation

He is widely regarded by legal professionals for his persistence, legal acumen, and ability to settle highly contentious and multifaceted disputes. Counsel frequently note his thorough preparation and his fair but firm approach in both mediation and arbitration settings.