Rhonda L. Mallory

Rhonda L. Mallory brings over three decades of expertise in both public and private sectors to her new role as a mediator on Signature Resolution’s neutral panel. Mallory’s experience in employment law, eminent domain, public entity, personal injury, civil rights and general liability cases informs her resolution-focused approach, prioritizing settlements to help clients avoid the emotional strain of litigation. 

Mallory earned her juris doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law and began her career specializing in medical malpractice litigation. Beginning in 1994, she spent 11 years as a senior trial attorney and lead counsel with Allstate Insurance, where she handled a range of premises liability and automobile negligence cases. During her tenure with the company, she also managed the San Diego office before transitioning to deputy attorney at the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). At Caltrans, she handled complex dangerous condition of public property cases, negligence actions against the state and its employees and the defense of the department, managers and supervisors in employment litigation and administrative matters, and eminent domain matters for the High Speed Rail Authority and various Caltrans projects. Most recently, Mallory worked as a supervising deputy attorney general for the torts and condemnation section with the Department of Justice, where she took on a leadership role managing a team of attorneys handling excessive force and civil rights claims, dangerous condition of public property, eminent domain and inverse condemnation, and other claims against public entities. A key aspect to her role as a supervisor was to teach and facilitate dispute resolution in her team’s litigated matters.

Mallory has served as the president of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) San Diego Chapter and was a member of the Executive Board of the San Diego Inns of Court, where she contributed her expertise and leadership to support professional growth and ethical standards within the legal profession. Her participation in these organizations reflects her commitment to advancing the practice of law and fostering a collaborative legal community. While she supports the rights for a jury trial, she hopes that parties can find a resolution. In 2022, Mallory was the recipient of the Hughes-McClenahan Civility Award, a lifetime achievement award recognizing professionalism and civility. ​

Her transition to Signature Resolution stems from a genuine interest for people and understanding their stories. Her background as both a trial attorney and a mediator provides her with a unique perspective on the human element in disputes. Mallory’s mediation philosophy centers on listening carefully to all parties and navigating each case’s nuances toward amicable solutions. ​Her approach is rooted in adaptability and empathy, addressing unique circumstances while recognizing the emotional weight many clients carry. As a mediator, Mallory is committed to achieving thoughtful and fair outcomes for all clients.