Hon. Drew C. Takaichi (Ret.)

Hon. Drew C. Takaichi (Ret.) brings more than four decades of legal experience to Signature Resolution, where he specializes in probate, trust and conservatorship cases. Transitioning to mediation after serving 14 years as a Judge for the Santa Clara County Superior Court, he is passionate about using his knowledge from the courtroom to help parties achieve resolutions. His deep understanding of the judicial process, combined with his personalized approach, reinforces his reputation as a trusted and effective mediator.​

Appointed to the Santa Clara County Superior Court in December 2010 by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Judge Takaichi has presided over a variety of complex probate, trust and estates cases. One such case involved a contest of seven estate plan documents and administration of a large estate that included a Silicon Valley tech company. The decedent was the founder and CEO and was also entangled in family law proceedings.  The company was represented in the cases by several law firms, adding further complexity. Throughout this experience and many other cases, Judge Takaichi has demonstrated a profound understanding of California law – probate, trust and civil, ensuring fair and just outcomes in cases involving estate and trust disputes. His combined experience as a judge and practitioner in this specialty has equipped him with a nuanced understanding of the financial and interpersonal complexities inherent in these cases. Judge Takaichi is also credited with updating the Santa Clara County Probate and Trust Local Rules of Court, including implementation of online posting of tentative rulings and Advanced Case Status Reports.​

In addition to his focus on probate, trust and estates, Judge Takaichi presided over a range of other complex cases, including conservatorship, municipality and private real property development litigation, business litigation and family law. As a mediator, he believes in a personalized approach to understand the priorities of all parties involved. His background as a judge gives him the ability to provide valuable and impartial judicial insight on the strengths and weaknesses of cases, helping parties navigate negotiations. In 2018, he was honored with the John Foley Trial Judge of the Year Award, a prestigious recognition of the Santa Clara County Trial Lawyers Association, reflecting his commitment to fairness, professionalism and excellence in the courtroom. ​

Prior to being appointed to the bench, Judge Takaichi built a legal career spanning nearly three decades in private practice. His time as an attorney allowed him to develop an intricate understanding of estate plan strategies, estate, gift and income tax considerations, fiduciary duties, beneficiary rights and litigation from all perspectives, reinforcing his ability to approach mediation with a well-rounded and informed perspective. Defining principles of Judge Takaichi’s approach are preparation, being present, engaged and authentic, ensuring that every client feels confident in the mediation process. ​

​Beyond his professional experience, Judge Takaichi is dedicated to mentorship and education, frequently participating in continuing education programs for the bench and bar. Having benefited from mentors throughout his own career, he embraces the opportunity to guide and support others. ​

He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration (accounting) from California State University, Chico, before obtaining his Juris Doctor from Santa Clara University Law School in 1980. Now, as a mediator at Signature Resolution, he applies his decades of legal knowledge and judicial insight to help parties navigate disputes.