Exceptional judgement, decisiveness, and objectivity.
Professional depth in all matters of civil litigation, mediation, arbitration, and complex transactional matters. AV Rated
While involved in the trial or resolution of cases throughout the state, Mr. Watts has always maintained his strong roots in Southern California. Married for over 40 years, he is the father of two daughters. He is an avid Outdoorsman and fervent golfer. Tom is also active in youth sports and civic affairs, having served many years on the Yorba Linda Parks and Recreation Commission.
Education
Master of Laws, Dispute Resolution * 2006-2008 Pepperdine University, School of Law, Straus Institute
Juris Doctorate * 1974-1977 Western State Law School
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science * 1970-1974 Chapman College (now Chapman University)
Teaching and Lecturing
University of La Verne, College of Law, Ontario, CA Adjunct Professor of Law – Arbitration, Negotiation, Mediation
Amity University, Noida, India, Lecturer Cross Cultural Communication, Managing Cognitive Bias, Negotiation
California Continuing Education of the Bar, Lecturer Juror Bias, Mediation Advocacy, Negotiation, Arbitration Advocacy
Court and Private Dispute Resolution Panels
Inland Valley Arbitration and Mediation Services (IVAMS)
Riverside County Bar Association General Civil & Probate
Orange County Courts General Civil/Probate/Family Laws
United States District Court for the Central District of California
Bankruptcy Court for Los Angeles Orange and Riverside Courts
Admissions
United States Supreme Court
California Supreme Court
United States District Court Central District
United States District Court Northern District
United States Tax Court
United States Court of Appeals
Professional Memberships
American Bar Association, Member
Orange County Bar Association, Member
Riverside County Bar Association, Member
San Bernardino County Bar Association, Member
American Trial Lawyers Association, Former Member
Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity, Founding/Former Member
Williston Senate American Inns of Court Pepperdine/Straus Charter Member
Civic Involvement
Orange and Riverside County Moot Court Programs
Over 30 years of volunteer service as judge pro-tem for Settlement Conferences, Small Claims, Traffic Calendars
Orange County Bar Association Fee Dispute Arbitrator
Yorba Linda Parks and Recreation Commissioner
Chairman Yorba Linda General Plan Advisory Committee
Numerous appearances before the Yorba Linda City Council on matters of public concern.