Feb 24, 2025
Hon. Stephen M. Pulido (Ret.) Joins ADR Services, Inc.
For more than four decades, Hon. Stephen Pulido (Ret.) has been a steadfast presence in the legal community, known for his fairness, depth of knowledge, and ability to navigate even the most complex disputes. With 46 years in the legal profession, including 18 years on the Alameda County Superior Court bench and 28 years as a practicing attorney, he has built a career rooted in justice, service, and a deep understanding of Family Law.
Judge Pulido’s path to the bench was one shaped by an unwavering commitment to helping people through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. As a Family Law attorney, he spent nearly three decades representing clients facing personal and legal upheaval, earning their trust with his pragmatic, compassionate approach to resolving disputes. He understood the emotional toll of family legal matters and was known for his ability to guide his clients with clarity and honesty. His practice thrived because of this reputation, with high-profile clients – including professional athletes, lawyers, and even judges – seeking his counsel.
In 2007, he brought his wealth of experience to the Alameda County Superior Court, where he would spend the next 18 years presiding over Family Law, Civil, and Juvenile Dependency matters. He quickly rose to leadership positions, serving as both Supervising and Presiding Judge of Family Law, as well as Chief Supervising Judge of Civil. Throughout his judicial career, he earned a reputation as a level-headed, knowledgeable, and fair-minded jurist who ran a well-organized courtroom, respected the time of attorneys, and had a deep understanding of the complexities of Family Law.
Even in the most challenging times, Judge Pulido remained steadfast in his commitment to the legal system. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he conducted nine remote jury trials, earning the Special Recognition Award from the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association (SFTLA) in 2021 for “keeping justice alive.” His dedication to justice and public service has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Distinguished Service Award from the Alameda County Bar Association (ACBA) in 2025, the 18 Years of Service Award from the Alameda County Superior Court in 2024, and multiple Appreciation Awards from the Alameda County Family Law Association for his unwavering support of families in the county. His leadership in expanding access to justice was further acknowledged with the Pro Bono Leadership Award from ACBA in 2013, recognizing his efforts to expand access to justice for low-income residents.
At the core of Judge Pulido’s approach to dispute resolution is his ability to connect with people. Whether working with litigants, attorneys, or fellow judges, he prioritizes fairness, civility, and clear communication. His philosophy in mediation and settlement conferences is built on honest dialogue and practical solutions. When parties reach an impasse, he brings them back to the reality of their situation, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of their cases with attorneys and litigants alike. He does not give false hope or unrealistic expectations, but instead, guides them toward a resolution that acknowledges both the legal and emotional complexities of their dispute. As a neutral, Judge Pulido remains deeply committed to helping people resolve disputes efficiently and fairly. His extensive experience, meticulous preparation, and balanced approach, combining rigorous legal analysis with practical insight, contribute to his ability to bring even the most contentious cases to resolution.