Hon. Jeff Castner, Comm. (Ret.) T: 310.203.8200 F: 310.203.8211

Following his early retirement from the Los Angeles Superior Court, Commissioner Jeff Castner became available for mediation, arbitration, and discovery references. Using his broad judicial experience, cutting-edge dispute resolution training, and extensive experience as a trial lawyer representing both plaintiffs and defendants, Commissioner Castner is known for his ability to quickly understand the underlying issue and resolve difficult cases. His friendly and facilitative approach puts the parties and lawyers at ease, allowing them to focus their energies on the settlement process. His strong work ethics means that he will not give up on a case until all potential avenues of agreement have been thoroughly explored. As an arbitrator, he carefully reviews submitted materials, gives witnesses and counsel his full attention, and renders timely, fair and well-reasoned decisions.

EDUCATION:

• (1978) J.D., Western State University College of Law

• (1976) B.S.L., Western State University College of Law

JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE:

• (1991-2002) Superior Court Commissioner, Long Beach, California

LEGAL CAREER:

• (1981-1991) Private Civil Law Practice, Long Beach, California - Principal of a six lawyer trial firm

• (1978 to 1981) Deputy District Attorney, Los Angeles County

• (1974 to 1978) District Attorney Investigator, Los Angeles County

• (1970 to 1974) Deputy Marshal, Los Angeles County

ADR EXPERIENCE:

• (2002-Present) Full-time mediator, arbitrator, discover referee, private judge and settlement conference officer.

ADR TRAINING:

• Completed Mediation Training, Pepperdine School of Law, Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, Malibu, California

AREAS OF EXPERTISE:

Personal Injury, Business and Contractual Disputes, Real Estate/Property, Professional Liability, Employment, Environmental, Transportation, Commercial, and Maritime

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS / AFFILIATIONS:

• Member, American Bar Association, Dispute Resolution Section

• Member, Transportation Lawyers Association, ADR Section

• Member, Long Beach Bar Association, Maritime Section

• Member, Southern California Mediation Association (SCMA)

• Member, Bencher, American Inns of Court, Long Beach, California

• Member, California Judges Association

• Member, Orange County Bar Association

• Former Board Member, California Court Commissioners Association

Commissioner Castner has received recognition from the Long Beach Bar Association for his Outstanding Service to the Bar and the Community. He was also recognized by the Los Angeles Superior Court for his involvement with Long Beach’s annual “Operation Stand Down” where for several years he conducted off-site court sessions to assist homeless veterans in clearing bench warrants for minor violations. He was also awarded the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm and Marine Corps Combat Action Ribbon, along with other military awards for his service in Vietnam.

INTERESTS:

Enjoys traveling, reading and hiking

AVAILABLE:

Throughout California and Nevada

Download Judge Castner's Profile (PDF)