
Hon. David R. Lampe (Ret.)
MEDIATOR | ARBITRATOR | JUDICIAL & DISCOVERY REFEREE
“Throughout my career as a trial attorney, judge, and mediator, I have witnessed the challenges and complexities that come with the trial experience. My goal is to provide fair, efficient, and strategic dispute resolution that helps parties navigate conflicts effectively. I am excited to bring my experience to Signature Resolution and continue serving the legal community in Central and Southern California.”
Case Administrator
Practice Areas
- Business Disputes
- Civil Law
- Class Action
- Complex Litigation
- Employment
- Groundwater Litigation/SGMA/Water Rights
- Mass Tort
- Personal Injury
- Premises Liability
- Product Liability
- State & Federal Constitutional Law
Education
- J.D., University of Santa Clara
- B.A., California State University, Bakersfield
Biography
Hon. David R. Lampe (Ret.) joins Signature Resolution as a mediator and arbitrator, bringing over 40 years of legal experience from his distinguished career as a civil trial attorney, mediator, and judge. As co-founder of Common Ground Resolutions in Bakersfield, Judge Lampe has played a pivotal role in providing high-quality mediation services to Central and Southern California. His transition to Signature Resolution marks a continued commitment to serving attorneys and their clients with integrity and professionalism.
Born and raised in Bakersfield, Judge Lampe has deep roots in Central California. He attended local schools before earning his undergraduate degree in Political Science from California State University, Bakersfield. He then pursued his law degree at the University of Santa Clara, before returning to Bakersfield to establish a successful legal career.
Prior to his appointment to the bench in 2007, Judge Lampe spent nearly 30 years as a civil trial lawyer, specializing in complex litigation matters, including tort defense, business torts, professional negligence, real estate disputes, probate litigation, contract disputes, banking issues, FEHA claims, oil and agricultural industry matters and water rights, including surface and groundwater basin rights litigation. His clientele included business owners, medical professionals, real estate professionals, lawyers, insurance companies, banks, estates, and public entities, including the State of California. Additionally, he handled appeals stemming from his trial cases and was an active member of American Board of Trial Advocates during his career.
During his tenure on the Kern County Superior Court, Judge Lampe presided over Unlimited Civil matters, conducting hundreds of jury and bench trials. His judicial experience and keen understanding of complex civil litigation have earned him a reputation for fairness, efficiency and sound judgment.
With his transition to Signature Resolution, Judge Lampe continues his work as a mediator and arbitrator, helping parties navigate and resolve disputes effectively. His presence in Central California marks a significant expansion for Signature Resolution, ensuring that high-caliber dispute resolution services are accessible to the region.
Experience
- Meditator and Principal, Common Ground Resolutions (2022-2025)
- Judge, Superior Court of Kern County, California (2007-2022)
- Partner, LeBeau Thelen LLP (1985-2007)
- Associate/Partner, Borton-Petrini, LLP (1977-1985)
Professional Achievements and Memberships
- Member, American Board of Trial Advocates (2004)