Scott L. Hengesbach

Scott L. Hengesbach brings extensive litigation experience to his role as a mediator with Signature Resolution. Known for his skillful advocacy and deep understanding of both legal and scientific nuances, as well as past collaboration with many of Signature Resolution’s neutrals, his transition into mediation is a natural next step in his career.  

In his mediation practice, Hengesbach brings the same strategic discipline, patience, and analytical approach that defined his success as a trial lawyer. Clients and counsel alike can expect a highly credible and methodical problem-solver who sees each case as a unique conversation. His experience as a litigator gives him insight into the realities and risks of trial, knowledge he uses to help parties reach resolution rather than leave their case up to a jury. His mediations are informed by his belief that resolution is often the only time in the life of a case when parties retain control of the outcome. His style combines deep legal analysis with empathy, recognizing that effective mediation must address not just facts and liability, but also emotional dynamics and reputational concerns. 

Hengesbach has earned the trust of the plaintiffs’ bar through his consistent fairness and understanding of opposing positions and arguments. He has been invited to speak to the plaintiffs’ bar on multiple occasions and has received positive feedback over the years. Over the course of his 37-year legal career, Hengesbach has developed a reputation for his work in toxic tort and medically complex litigation. As Partner and Chair of the Toxic Tort and Environmental Law Practice Group at Murchison & Cumming, LLP, he handled hundreds of cases, including product liability, transportation, general liability, toxic tort and environmental litigation, and medically complex cases, including traumatic brain injury claims. In a notable product liability case, Hengesbach defended a manufacturer against claims that its product caused acute liver failure, necessitating a liver transplant. After filing a motion for summary judgment, he seamlessly resolved the matter for nuisance value, securing a highly favorable outcome for his client. Hengesbach also successfully argued the case of Greb v. Diamond International Corp., 56 Cal.4^th 243 (2013) before the California Supreme Court (7-0 decision).

Hengesbach’s passion for advocacy and the legal profession began in junior high, when a vice principal encouraged him to join the debate program. He competed nationally, attended summer camps, and devoted his high school and college years to public speaking and debate. He also played football and basketball, and was mentored by coaches who helped him refine his natural talent as a leader.  

After earning his degree from the University of Redlands, where he debated for four years, Hengesbach became Director of Debate, Speech and Forensics and taught American Government at his alma mater, Claremont High School. These early roles allowed him to sharpen his communication skills, mentor students, and further develop his passion for advocacy before pursuing his law degree at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law. During law school, he served as Comment Staff Writer and Editor for the Pacific Law Journal, sharpening the writing and analysis skills that would define his legal career. 

In addition to his legal work, Hengesbach has always prioritized mentorship. He has led training programs for younger attorneys, delivered presentations on trial strategy and cross-examination, and helped shape the next generation of legal talent. He also remains a passionate coach and team leader outside the courtroom, having coached AYSO soccer, girls’ softball, and captained his lawyer basketball team in the Landau Lawyers League for more than 30 years.