Profile photo of Jon Sands

Jon Sands

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Phoenix, AZ, United States

About

Before entering private practice, this neutral served as the Federal Public Defender for the District of Arizona for nearly two decades, managing one of the nation's largest public defender offices. His extensive legal career includes representing clients in high-stakes federal litigation, appearing before the United States Supreme Court, and handling numerous cases in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. He has deep expertise in federal sentencing, white-collar defense, and complex constitutional issues, having navigated the intricacies of the federal court system for over 30 years.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Civil Rights Corporate & Finance Employment & Labor Government & Administrative Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Intellectual Property Personal Injury & Torts

Professional Experience

Federal Public Defender
District of Arizona
2004–2023
Assistant Federal Public Defender
District of Arizona
1987–2004
Law Clerk
Hon. Mary M. Schroeder
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
Attorney
Private Practice

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent lecturer on federal sentencing guidelines and criminal procedure
  • Author of numerous articles regarding federal criminal law and ethics
  • Served as Chair of the Federal Defender Sentencing Guidelines Committee
  • Faculty member for various Federal Judicial Center programs

Positioning Takeaways

This neutral offers unparalleled insight into the federal judicial system, making him an ideal choice for matters involving federal agencies, complex constitutional questions, or appellate mediation. His decades of leadership in a high-volume legal environment translate to efficient and decisive management of multi-party disputes.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of Arizona
  • United States Supreme Court Bar
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

Education

J.D.
University of Arizona College of Law
B.A.
University of Arizona

Distinction

One of the longest-serving Federal Public Defenders in United States history with significant experience in capital litigation and federal policy.

Reputation

He is recognized by legal peers and the judiciary for his profound understanding of federal statutes and his balanced, analytical approach to resolving contentious legal conflicts. Colleagues note his ability to simplify complex regulatory frameworks and his commitment to procedural fairness.