Introduction
Judge Warner's legal career spans more than 38 years. Following 19 years as a civil trial lawyer, he was appointed to the Bench in San Bernardino County by Gov. Pete Wilson. Warner served with distinction as a Superior Court Judge. He presided over several hundred jury trials involving all types of civil matters, including class actions, insurance bad faith cases (see Goodrich v Aetna), and all manner of tort, contract, employment and real estate cases. During his tenure on the bench, Judge Warner also held a number of supervisory positions with the Court, including Assistant Presiding Judge of the Appellate Department. In addition to his administrative responsibilities, Judge Warner conducted thousands of settlement conferences. He was highly regarded by both sides of the bar, and litigants, for his settlement and trial skills. The Judge was and is a frequent speaker at legal and educational functions, including "Bridging the Gap". While in law school Judge Warner was employed in the insurance claims field. He received national recognition in both property and casualty claims handling. He is known for his calm, personal demeanor and is considered by attorneys as one of the best judicial officers based upon his legal acumen, fairness and temperament. One attorney commented, "Judge Warner was the perfect choice for a difficult and complex mediation that was held shortly before trial. He mastered the facts, worked with difficult issues and found solutions where 99% of others might not. He is uniquely gifted, and his high integrity and energy made him perfect for the task."
In addition to his work with Judicate West, Judge Warner volunteers at the 4th district Court of Appeals as a mediator. He also volunteers his time at the Legal aid Society of San Bernardino, where he works with the indigent on the legal matters that confront them. Judge Warner has also served as a judge at an ABA sponsored law school mediation competition.
Specialties
Hobbies & Interests
The judge is an avid baseball fan, his favorite team being the Angels. He also plays golf, loves music, traveling, and road trips, and he is a "car guy".
Testimonials
Judge Warner was the perfect choice for a difficult and complex mediation I had with the County
shortly before a trial. He mastered the facts, worked with difficult issues and found solutions
where 99% would not. He is uniquely gifted and his high integrity and energy made him perfect for the task.
- Prominent Attorney, Southern California
Judge Warner was a quick study and properly evaluated the case.
- Attorney on an insurance subrogation dispute
Judge Warner was knowledgeable, calm, and persistent.
- Attorney on a civil rights dispute
Did an excellent job analyzing the jury appeal of plaintiff and her allegations.
- Attorney on a catastrophic assault & battery dispute
Understood the issues; sought out opposing counsel & party’s positions effectively.
- Attorney on an insurance subrogation dispute
