Signature Resolution Welcomes Former Judge to Mediation Panel

Signature Resolution, a dispute resolution firm based in Los Angeles, has expanded its panel of neutrals by welcoming Hon. Dennis M. Cota (Ret.) to its roster. Cota, a former U.S. Magistrate Judge and public law litigator, brings extensive experience in civil rights and public entity litigation to the firm.

Cota’s career has spanned three decades, during which he represented cities, counties, and law enforcement agencies in civil rights and environmental cases. His experience includes working at Best Best & Krieger LLP, where he served as managing partner of the Ontario and later Sacramento offices, and founding Cota Cole & Huber LLP, where he established a public law practice with a statewide reach. In 2018, he was appointed U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Eastern District of California, a role he held for eight years.

As a mediator and arbitrator, Cota is known for his ability to delve beyond a party’s stated position to uncover the underlying issues. He then works directly with the individuals affected by these issues, ensuring that the case is resolved effectively. Cota is also recognized for his creativity, bringing new perspectives and solutions to disputes that have reached impasse.

Dario Higuchi, the founder and CEO of Signature Resolution, expressed enthusiasm about Cota’s addition to the firm.

Cota’s background in training the next generation of trial lawyers is also noteworthy. He has served as director and coach of the University of California, Davis, School of Law’s Trial Advocacy Competition and has taught Trial Practice and Advanced Trial Practice as a lecturer there. He has also lectured on civil procedure and evidence through the University of California, Riverside Extension Program and served as a guest lecturer at the University of La Verne College of Law.

Signature Resolution, founded in 2017, comprises a panel of distinguished neutrals from diverse backgrounds, including respected judges and trial attorneys specializing in virtually every civil practice area. The firm aims to provide the highest level of service and convenience for attorneys and their clients. With offices across California, Signature Resolution offers mediation, arbitration, and other dispute resolution services.

Cota’s addition to the panel is expected to enhance Signature Resolution’s capabilities in handling complex civil rights and public entity disputes, including land use and environmental, contract, police misconduct, and constitutional matters.