Douglas F. McCormick

Judge McCormick was very equitable and fair. He handled my initial case rulings and presided over the settlement process. He beat up both sides equally, but at the same time, was not afraid to step in and go the extra mile when the situation merited it. He has the ability to put ego aside and be personable without feeling like his respect as a judge is threatened or his authority undermined. The mark of a secure person and the kind of judge you want in litigation process.

This magistrate is a treasure. Informed on the latest updates in hotly contested and unsettled areas of law, and willing to do the necessary research to fully absorb extremely complex and nuanced legal theories. We could use more jurists like Judge McCormick.

Fair, patient, and whip-smart. Highly recommended if you're trying to settle. How is this guy not a DJ?

Judge McCormick was the discovery and settlement judge for us in a complex civil case. He short circuited discovery disputes by allowing phone calls and was even handed; ruled both ways, but never could complain about his reasoning. He spent countless hours settling our case and was creative, fair, and non-tiring. We've tried to use him in other federal civil cases as a settlement judge whenever we are in Santa Ana. He should be a district court judge.

I've had Judge McCormick as a mediator and as a judge for provisional remedies and discovery. He is excellent. A former big firm lawyer at Latham & Watkins, he really understands complex civil litigation. He also has a great temperament and is very respectful to counsel and parties.

He was the judge initially assigned to my federal criminal matter out of Orange County. He presided over my detention hearing, and I'm so fortunate to have landed in his courtroom. To put it lightly, my release pre-trial was very questionable and on the fence. He was able to see past my history, and gave me one more chance to remain out on bond pre-trial. I had prepared myself for remand. Bond and release conditions were very fair and reasonable. Unfortunately, my case was reassigned to Judge Dale Fischer. I had faith, up to that point. Now I just feel like a giant nail, about to get hammered. FML!