Hon. Erick L. Larsh (Ret.)

Hon. Erick L. Larsh (Ret.) joins Signature Resolution’s fast-growing Orange County panel with a breadth of judicial experience that uniquely spans complex civil litigation, business disputes, insurance bad faith matters, personal injury cases, and high-conflict family law proceedings. His career on the bench gives him a practical understanding of how cases are tried, how judges evaluate them, and what ultimately drives resolution. Known for his meticulous preparation, sharp command of case detail, and ability to engage directly with counsel and parties, Judge Larsh has built a reputation for cutting through noise and focusing on what truly matters in a dispute.

Judge Larsh approaches mediation as he approached the bench, with intellectual rigor, disciplined preparation, and genuine curiosity about the people involved. He listens closely, asks direct and precise questions, and helps parties confront the legal and practical realities of their position. He is candid when evaluating risk, yet measured in delivery, creating an environment where difficult conversations can occur without unnecessary escalation. Drawing from years presiding over complex civil trials and emotionally charged family matters, he is particularly skilled at managing strong personalities, reframing entrenched positions, and guiding parties toward pragmatic solutions.

In 2005, Judge Larsh was appointed to the Orange County Superior Court by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Over nearly two decades on the bench, he presided over a wide spectrum of civil matters, including complex business litigation, insurance bad faith disputes, professional liability claims, personal injury cases, and significant family law matters. His experience hearing these cases from the judicial perspective allows him to provide parties with a clear-eyed assessment of strengths, weaknesses, and potential outcomes.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Judge Larsh played a leadership role within the Orange County Superior Court, helping guide the court through unprecedented operational challenges. Under his direction, the court completed 114 jury trials in 2020 alone, reflecting organization, decisiveness, and an unwavering commitment to maintaining forward progress even in uncertain circumstances.

In an unconventional move for a senior judge, Judge Larsh chose to serve in the Family Law department, where he spent seven years addressing some of the most complex and novel issues before the court, including international custody disputes and sensitive matters involving gender-affirming care. He became known for his exceptional memory for case detail and his insistence on fully hearing the individuals involved. This experience strengthened his ability to balance legal precision with sensitivity to the human dynamics underlying many disputes.

Earlier in his career, Judge Larsh served on both sides of the courtroom as a prosecutor and later in private practice. That dual perspective sharpened his awareness of how advocacy can create blind spots and how perspective shifts often unlock resolution. In mediation, he helps parties see their case through multiple lenses, a skill that frequently becomes the turning point in settlement. As a mediator and arbitrator, Judge Larsh combines courtroom authority with practical problem-solving. He identifies the legal leverage points, understands the personal and business considerations influencing decision-making, and guides parties toward durable agreements grounded in informed choice and realistic outcomes.