Hon. Stephen D. Schuett (Ret.)

Following a distinguished career as a judge and mediator, Hon. Stephen D. Schuett (Ret.) joins Signature Resolution as one of the first neutrals serving Central California. With a deep commitment to conflict resolution and an extensive background in family law, Judge Schuett brings unparalleled expertise to the firm’s growing presence beyond Southern California. ​

Most recently, Judge Schuett practiced mediation for two years at Common Ground Resolutions alongside Judge David R. Lampe (Ret.), where he successfully facilitated settlements in a wide range of civil and family law matters. Before transitioning to full-time mediation, Judge Schuett served on the Kern County Superior Court bench for 13 years, where he presided over criminal, unlimited civil, and family law cases. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in complex family law disputes, including business valuations, property characterization, pre-marital agreements, child custody, and support matters. In his last two years as a judge, Judge Schuett served as Supervising Judge for the family law division, handling the complex family law calendar and the family law settlement conference calendar. ​

Before his judicial service, Judge Schuett had an extensive career in civil litigation, practicing in Los Angeles before returning to Bakersfield. He spent 25 years in the Office of the Kern County Counsel, ultimately serving as the Assistant County Counsel before being appointed to the bench in 2010. ​

​A native of Bakersfield, Judge Schuett is deeply familiar with the unique legal landscape of the Central California. By bringing Signature Resolution’s renowned dispute resolution services to this region, he is committed to providing efficient, fair and thoughtful mediation and arbitration services to attorneys and their clients.​

Judge Schuett earned both his undergraduate and graduate degrees in economics from UCLA before obtaining his law degree from UCLA School of Law. He is recognized for his professionalism, integrity and ability to navigate complex disputes with a calm and strategic approach.​

Through his role at Signature Resolution, Judge Schuett continues his meaningful work helping parties find resolutions that serve their best interests while expanding access to premier mediation services in Central California.