Hon. Keri G. Katz (Ret.)

Hon. Keri G. Katz (Ret.) has nearly forty years of experience, both as a Superior Court Civil Independent calendar judge and a former civil litigator. Judge Katz is recognized for her persistence in clarifying complex issues and developing personalized, practical solutions to resolve disputes. Known for her patience, empathy, and perseverance, she creates an environment where parties feel heard and solutions are achieved. Her dedication to securing the best possible outcomes remains strong, ensuring that settlements are not only made but also effectively implemented. To accommodate all parties, Judge Katz is willing to travel to mutually agreed-upon business and government locations for her neutral services.

Throughout her legal career, she presided over hundreds of legal proceedings, including trials and settlement conferences, involving construction, professional liability, and land use and contractual disputes. She also litigated property damage and ownership disputes, such as those related to landslides, flooding, and easement issues. Additionally, Judge Katz litigated and presided over personal injury, excessive force, wrongful death, and premises liability cases.

In her legal practice, Judge Katz handled many cases across various legal fields. Known for her ability to create unique settlements, she advised all public works departments, including the capital projects department and the city engineer. Judge Katz was responsible for resolving several complex disputes related to construction, professional liability, torts, contracts, and property. She also litigated and settled various land use cases, including claims of inverse condemnation and development rights. Additionally, Judge Katz provided valuable legal advice to the city engineer, mayor, and city council as a member of the mayor’s executive management team.

After earning her undergraduate degree in political science with an emphasis on public administration from the University of California, Los Angeles, and her Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law, Judge Katz began her career in 1986 as a deputy city attorney in San Diego. For nearly 21 years, she handled both civil plaintiff and defense cases on behalf of the City of San Diego. She advanced through various attorney roles in the office, including managing the public works division, which involved all advisory and litigation attorneys. Finally, she was reorganized for her achievements and appointed as the assistant city attorney, responsible for all civil attorneys in the office.

In February 2014, California’s governor recognized Judge Katz’s outstanding judicial demeanor and skill and appointed her as a Superior Court judge after she had served as a San Diego Superior Court commissioner. As a commissioner, she was assigned to various departments, including sitting as a judicial officer in the family law division of the Superior Court.

Beyond her work as a lawyer and judge, Judge Katz has actively contributed to the legal community through education opportunities. She previously served as an adjunct law professor at California Western School of Law, where she taught the practical application of civil law. She also instructed hundreds of attorneys on proper demeanor and bias prevention to qualify as temporary judges. She also completed her term as president of the San Diego County Judges’ Association.

In her role as a Signature Resolution neutral, Judge Katz brings a strong set of skills developed throughout her career, including her ability to handle complex legal issues with skill and accuracy. She promotes empathy, patience, and a thorough examination of settlement options, giving all parties a chance to be heard. She also uses her expertise to overcome challenges and guide discussions toward successful outcomes.