Private Judge

Private Family Law Judge in Santa Clara County

A private judge is an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) option that allows parties, by mutual agreement, to appoint an experienced family law attorney to serve as a neutral decision-maker in their case.

Rather than proceeding through the traditional court process, where scheduling is often constrained by crowded dockets and hearings that take place in a public courtroom setting with other litigants and counsel present, the parties jointly retain a qualified attorney to hear their matter and issue rulings and orders in accordance with California law.

Benefits of Using a Private Judge

Choosing a private judge allows families to take a more active role in how their case is managed. By jointly selecting an experienced neutral to oversee the matter, parties can benefit from a process that promotes privacy and a more constructive path toward resolution than is often available through the traditional court system.

Privacy: Proceedings take place outside of the public courtroom, providing a more confidential and comfortable setting for addressing sensitive family matters.

Continuity: The same appointed professional oversees the matter from beginning to end, building a comprehensive understanding of the family’s circumstances and the issues at stake, thus promoting a more efficient and informed process by preserving the context developed throughout the case.

Flexible & Efficient Resolution: With greater scheduling flexibility, families are not subject to the Santa Clara County Family Court’s limited availability, thus moving matters forward more efficiently.

Constructive Environment: A private judge fosters an environment that can help parties address sensitive family law issues in a more focused and thoughtful manner, with fewer of the logistical pressures associated with a busy court calendar.

Private Judge vs. Mediator

While both roles are intended to promote privacy and neutrality, mediators assist the parties and counsel in facilitating discussions and reaching their own mutually agreed-upon resolution. In contrast, private judges are retained to hear disputed issues and make decisions or orders based on the information and arguments presented.

Jennifer A. Mello – Meet Our Private Family Law Judge

Jennifer A. Mello serves as a private family law judge in Santa Clara County for parties seeking a streamlined, impartial, and confidential alternative to litigation. As a Certified Family Law Specialist with over 25 years of exclusively practicing family law, Jennifer is a widely trusted family law professional who draws upon decades of courtroom and settlement experience to provide thoughtful, practical, and informed decisions.

Contact our office information on pricing, scheduling and determining if hiring a private judge is the right option for your family law matter.