San Francisco – JAMS, the largest private provider of mediation and arbitration services worldwide, today announced that one of its neutrals, Hon. Terry B. Friedman (Ret.), spoke at Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye’s confirmation hearing regarding her nomination by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger for the position of Chief Justice of California. The public hearing was held on Aug. 25 by the Commission on Judicial Appointments in San Francisco.
Justice Cantil-Sakauye, who serves as Associate Justice of the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District (Sacramento), was nominated to fill the Supreme Court vacancy created by the announcement of Chief Justice Ronald M. George that he would not seek re-election as Chief Justice in November.
Judge Friedman served with Justice Cantil-Sakauye on the Judicial Council of California for two years. He spoke of her judicial experience, intelligence, fairness and her ability to lead the judicial branch.
Judge Friedman is a full-time mediator and arbitrator with JAMS and is based in Santa Monica. He served for 15 years on the Los Angeles Superior Court. Prior to that, he was a member of the California State Assembly, executive director of Bet Tzedek and an attorney with the Western Center on Law and Poverty.
Following is an excerpt from his comments:
“Justice Cantil-Sakauye epitomizes the qualities of a judge. She is respectful of all, she lives to serve others, she is fair, she is patient. As the face of our branch, Justice Cantil-Sakauye will inspire Californians of all backgrounds that there is equality under law in California, that all Californians have access to justice to resolve their disputes. This is what the public wants. And to preserve the people’s support of our branch, this is what the judiciary needs.”
For a full transcript of Judge Friedman’s comments, please click here.
About JAMS, The Resolution Experts
Founded in 1979, JAMS, The Resolution Experts is the largest private provider of mediation and arbitration services worldwide. With Resolution Centers nationwide and abroad, JAMS and its more than 250 exclusive neutrals are responsible for resolving thousands of the world’s important cases. JAMS may be reached at 800-352-5267 or www.jamsadr.com.