Resume

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Peter J. Linn brings more than 25 years of trial-tested litigation experience to his current work as a full-time neutral, where he is known for his rigorous preparation, grounded insights, and results-oriented approach. Since transitioning to alternative dispute resolution, Mr. Linn has mediated more than 500 matters and earned consistent praise for his ability to navigate complex disputes with patience, clarity, and creativity.

Prior to joining ADR Services, Inc., Mr. Linn built a highly regarded litigation practice representing clients across the commercial spectrum—from individuals and small businesses to large institutional entities. His casework spanned real estate, construction, employment, business torts, personal injury, and professional liability. A seasoned trial lawyer, he has successfully taken numerous high-stakes cases to verdict and handled appeals in both state and federal court. Over time, he developed a reputation as the attorney clients called when the facts were messy, the law unclear, or the personalities difficult.

That skillset now defines his work as a mediator and arbitrator. Mr. Linn is often described by counsel as a calm, pragmatic presence—someone who “does his homework,” listens intently, and creates an environment where clients feel heard and attorneys feel respected. He is particularly valued for his ability to “see the big picture dynamics” of a case—beyond just the legal arguments—and tailor solutions accordingly.

As a mediator, Mr. Linn is deeply evaluative and brings the full weight of his trial experience to bear. He engages in advance with counsel to understand the legal, procedural, and emotional landscape of each case, then uses that information to prepare meaningful conversations with parties. Attorneys consistently note his credibility, strategic thinking, and effectiveness with both sides of the bar. Whether helping parties test legal theories, reframe risk, or navigate difficult personalities, he is committed to resolving disputes efficiently—and, just as importantly, with integrity.

Mr. Linn is unapologetically results-driven. He believes that while the process matters, it must ultimately lead somewhere. Whether the dispute is straightforward or deeply entrenched, his goal is to get parties to resolution—or as close to it as possible. He is known for his willingness to keep working post-session, his skill in reframing difficult conversations, and his ability to build trust with clients, attorneys, and insurance representatives alike.

He is especially adept at untangling complex, high-conflict matters—disputes often mired in a web of disputed facts, procedural hurdles, and heightened emotion. With a keen eye for structure and strategy, he approaches each case by stepping back, assessing the full picture, and reverse-engineering a path toward resolution.

• Business
• Construction
• Employment
• Insurance
• Personal Injury
• Professional Liability
• Real Estate

ADR Services, Inc.  2024-Present
Mediator, Arbitrator, Discovery Referee

The Congress of Neutrals, Pleasant Hill, CA  2021-Present
Pro-tem mediator, Contra Costa County Superior Court

Linn Mediation & Dispute Resolution Services, Walnut Creek, CA  2021-2024
Mediator, Discovery Referee

Bishop | Barry, Emeryville, CA  2007-2021
Principal/Shareholder (2011-2021)
Of Counsel (2007-2011)

Murphy, Pearson, Bradley & Feeney, San Francisco, CA  1997-2007
Director (2002-2007)
Associate (1997-2002)

Barth & Kelly, San Jose, CA   1995-1997
Associate

• Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University School of Law
• Juris Doctorate, University of San Francisco School of Law
• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, University of California, Los Angeles

Superior Court of California, County of Alameda
ADR/Mediator Panelist

Superior Court of California, County of Contra County
ADR/Mediator Panelist (through the Congress of Neutrals)

Mr. Linn is a co-creator and presenter of a Continuing Legal Education program entitled “Mediation Boot Camp” offered to law firms throughout California. The program is designed to teach lawyers new to the practice of law about effective mediation strategies.