Hon. Keith Wisot (Ret.) is one of JAMS most respected neutrals and is an especially skilled communicator. He maintains an up-to-date knowledge of the law, and he is often selected to deal with high profile matters and particularly demanding clients.
Judge Wisot has a unique background in complex cases arising from environmental damage, and he has developed expertise in employment cases (including executive agreements, sexual harassment and discrimination, and wage/hour issues) and business cases (including unfair business practices). Because of his particular skill in organizing complex matters, he is regularly asked to manage discovery in a variety of multi-party business and commercial cases as a Referee or Special Master in both State and Federal courts.
ADR Experience and Qualifications
- Because of his broad experience in the complete range of civil litigation, Judge Wisot is selected in employment, business, commercial, and malpractice matters. Parties often consult him even before litigation is filed.
- As a mediator, he demonstrates particular skill because of his ability to listen and to communicate effectively. He maintains a focused discussion; his tenacity helps people find an end to even the most difficult problems. Attorneys describe Judge Wisot as "involved, energetic and truly interested in a fair, prompt resolution." "He comes very prepared." "He handles my real estate, environmental and coverage cases with equal ease." (California Arbitrator & Mediator Reviews, James Publishing, 1999 ed.)
- In arbitration matters, Judge Wisot's skill for organization assures that the matter will be completed in a timely manner. He is an innovator in techniques that allow for an effective presentation of the parties' dispute. He often serves as arbitrator for all disputes arising under long-term partnership agreements, construction contracts, toxic cleanup (MTBE), and other continuing relationships. Parties have repeatedly selected Judge Wisot as the sole arbitrator in class-action proceedings.
- Frequent speaker at meetings and conferences: Mealey's Environmental Reinsurance, the Rutter Group, National Institute for Trial Advocacy, the American Bar Association, and CAALA. Contributing editor of General Discovery Principles (Matthew Bender, 1992).
Representative Matters
- Trial judge in Montrose v. Admiral Insurance, insurance coverage/toxic cleanup, 1985-1994
- Lead judge in Albillo v. Intermodal Container, with dual jurisdiction as Pro Tem Superior Court and Workers' Compensation Appeals Board, class action dealing with independent contractor status of truck drivers; insurance practices; Federal Truth in Leasing; and unfair business practices
- Experienced in International Chamber of Commerce Arbitration proceedings
- Successfully resolved hundreds of cases involving:
- Personal injury and wrongful death
- Insurance coverage and bad faith
- Construction defect, including mold infestation
- Satellite TV channel distribution
- High profile entertainment personalities
- Oilfield drilling and production
- Commercial, business, and professional liability
- Pharmaceutical/medical issues