Hon. Barbara R. Johnson (Ret.)

Hon. Barbara R. Johnson brings over 30 years of legal experience to her role as a Mediator, Arbitrator, Referee, and Private Judge with ADR Services, Inc. Retiring from the Los Angeles Superior Court in 2020 after 27 years on the bench, Judge Johnson is known for her exceptional ability to facilitate resolutions in complex probate disputes.

While on the bench, Judge Johnson served in various capacities, including assignments in Probate, the Appellate Division, and the Criminal Department. Her extensive experience in probate matters is a cornerstone of her practice, having presided over a diverse range of cases involving breach of fiduciary duty, contested conservatorships and guardianships, trust and estate disputes, real property transfers, and will contests. In addition, she participated in numerous settlement conferences and was instrumental in helping the parties negotiate resolution of their disputes.

Before her judicial career, Judge Johnson worked as a sole practitioner handling probate, family law, landlord-tenant, and criminal matters. She later served as a Deputy City Attorney and Assistant City Attorney for the City of Inglewood before her appointment to the bench in 1993.

Since joining ADR Services, Inc. in 2020 and commencing her ADR practice, Judge Johnson has settled dozens of difficult cases. She is recognized for her exceptional mediation skills and ability to navigate complex, longstanding disputes. Clients commend her strategic and laid-back approach, noting her knack for disarming tensions and ensuring all parties feel heard and respected.

Testimonials attest to Judge Johnson’s effectiveness as a mediator, emphasizing her proactive efforts to understand case and party dynamics prior to mediation sessions and her commitment to guiding parties towards resolution. Her unique blend of legal expertise, empathy, and strategic insight makes her an effective mediator sought after for her ability to bridge contentious divides and achieve positive results for her clients.

bjohnson@adrservices.com (310) 201-0010 www.judgebarbarajohnson.com