Hon. Eddie C. Sturgeon (Ret.)

Hon. Eddie C. Sturgeon, (Ret.) brings over five decades of legal expertise and a steadfast commitment to the law to his new role at Signature Resolution. With his wealth of general civil experience, coupled with his innate ability to listen and guide, he is poised to facilitate constructive dialogue and achieve meaningful resolution for the parties. ​

As Judge Sturgeon embarks on this new chapter with Signature Resolution as mediator and arbitrator, he is eager to connect with individuals, listening attentively to their stories, and guiding them through the resolution process. His role presents a unique opportunity to facilitate constructive dialogue, empower parties to voice their concerns, and ultimately achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. With a diverse background, Judge Sturgeon anticipates resolving various types of cases in all areas of law. Throughout his career, he has honed essential skills, emphasizing the importance of active listening, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and promptly resolving disputes to alleviate stress for all parties.​

Judge Sturgeon began his career as an associate in a San Diego-based civil law firm, where he swiftly ascended to the position of partner. For 14 years, Judge Sturgeon honed his craft, navigating civil and criminal cases with finesse. His reputation for fairness and expertise caught the attention of former Governor George Deukmejian, who appointed him to the El Cajon Municipal Court in 1988. The appointment marked the beginning of Judge Sturgeon’s tenure on the bench, a role he fulfilled with distinction and continued with his elevation to the Superior Court of San Diego County in 1998, following the unification of Superior and Municipal courts. Judge Sturgeon’s dedication to upholding the rule of law for all has been unwavering throughout his career, making him a respected figure in the legal community and beyond.​

​Throughout his career, Judge Sturgeon presided over landmark cases that have shaped legal precedents and impacted countless lives. From addressing the intricate nuances of mass tort litigation to navigating high-profile disputes his contributions to the legal landscape are profound. In particular, his role in the Apple wage and hour case, the Johnson & Johnson pelvic mesh lawsuit, and The People of the State of California vs. Ashford University demonstrates his dedication to upholding fairness.​

Judge Sturgeon also prioritizes a deep passion for judicial education. He was faculty (civil and criminal) at the many judicial institutes sponsored by the Center for Judicial Education and Research. He served as Chair of the Center for Judicial Education and Research Committee, and had the honor to serve as Dean of the B. E. Witkin Judicial College from 2009-2010. He was assistant dean from 2007-2008. Judge Sturgeon continues to lecture to various organizations. His journey into the legal realm began with a childhood fascination sparked by Perry Mason, a beacon of the law on television screens. This early inspiration led him to a dedicated pursuit of legal studies, culminating in a juris doctorate from the University of Santa Clara School of Law in 1973. This was supplemented by a B.A. in economics, and a minor in political science from San Diego State University. This educational foundation and his passion for the law laid the groundwork for a career spanning over five decades.