Profile photo of Donna D. Melby, Esq.

Donna D. Melby, Esq.

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Los Angeles, CA, United States

About

With over 40 years of experience, this neutral has presided over and litigated high-stakes matters across various sectors including employment, commercial, and intellectual property. Her background includes serving as a lead trial lawyer in state and federal courts, handling complex multi-party disputes and class actions. She has a deep history in labor law, executive compensation, and trade secret litigation, having represented both domestic and international entities.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Corporate & Finance Employment & Labor Entertainment & Media Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Intellectual Property Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Partner
Paul Hastings LLP
Partner
Sedgwick
Detert
Moran & Arnold LLP

Publications Leadership

  • Featured Guest, JAMS ADR Insights Podcast regarding jury trial innovations
  • Author, various articles on employment law and trial advocacy for the ABOTA Magis
  • Speaker, National Center for State Courts summits on judicial independence
  • Faculty Member, ABOTA Masters in Trial programs
  • Past President, Los Angeles Chapter of ABOTA

Positioning Takeaways

A highly decorated trial veteran with significant leadership experience in national legal organizations, making her suitable for complex, high-profile commercial and employment disputes.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of California
  • Admitted to the United States Supreme Court
  • Admitted to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
  • Admitted to all United States District Courts in California

Education

J.D.
Loyola Law School
B.A.
University of California, Riverside

Distinction

She was the first woman to serve as the National President of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA).

Reputation

She is recognized by peers and legal organizations for her exceptional trial skills and her commitment to the preservation of the civil jury trial system. She is frequently cited as a top-tier practitioner in labor and employment law by various legal publications.