Charles Margines

Hon. Charles Margines (Ret.) joined JAMS after more than 23 years as a judge on the Orange County Superior Court and, for the five years before that, as a municipal court judge. Judge Margines was the assistant presiding judge of the Superior Court for two years and presiding judge for three years. As presiding judge, he guided the court's 144 judicial officers and approximately 1,500 non-judicial staff in a time of challenging fiscal difficulties with a steady hand and sound decision-making. Judge Margines also served on the Court's Appellate Division for approximately six and a half years, including two years as its presiding judge. Judge Margines is known for his legal knowledge, work ethic, fairness and calm demeanor. Judge Margines quickly adapted to presiding over motions and trials, and conducting settlement conferences, in a virtual setting. He is available to conduct mediations and arbitrations and to act as a referee, special master and hearing officer.