August 29, 2023

Chief Judge Philip S. Gutierrez Named 2023-2024 Distinguished Jurist-in-Residence at Southwestern Law School 

Los Angeles, CA – Southwestern Law School proudly announces the appointment of Chief Judge Philip S. Gutierrez, U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, as the Distinguished Jurist-in-Residence for the 2023-2024 academic year. Southwestern Law School’s Jurist-in-Residence Program invites prominent judges to engage with the law school community and share their expertise.  

Chief Judge Gutierrez’s residency commences with the Distinguished Jurist-in-Residence Program and Reception on September 27, 2023. At this event, Southwestern's President and Dean Darby Dickerson will engage in a conversation with Chief Judge Gutierrez that will cover a variety of topics, including his legal journey, work as Chief Judge, the importance of judicial independence, and tips for newer attorneys.  

"We are thrilled to welcome Chief U.S. District Judge Philip S. Gutierrez,” said Dean Dickerson. “We believe his presence will not only inspire, but also catalyze the growth and aspirations of our students, equipping them for the ever-evolving landscape of the legal world.” 

About Chief U.S. District Judge Philip S. Gutierrez 

Chief Judge Gutierrez earned his B.A. from the University of Notre Dame and his J.D. from UCLA School of Law. After an extensive career in private practice focusing on complex business litigation, malpractice liability, and insurance coverage, he served as a judge on the Superior Court of Los Angeles from 1997 to 2007. In 2007, he was nominated by President George W. Bush and confirmed by the United States Senate to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. In June 2020, he assumed the role of Chief Judge. 
 
Expressing his enthusiasm for the appointment, Chief Judge Gutierrez remarked, "I am deeply honored to join Southwestern Law School as the Distinguished Jurist-in-Residence. This opportunity allows me to connect with the next generation of legal minds and share insights from my journey in the legal profession. Engaging with students, sharing experiences, and fostering discussions on the intricacies of the law is a privilege I eagerly anticipate. I look forward to contributing to their education and helping them navigate the complexities of the legal world." 

About the Distinguished Jurist-in-Residence Program 

Launched in 2021, the Jurist-in-Residence Program at Southwestern offers law students a unique opportunity to engage with and learn from some of the nation's most distinguished jurists. Judges participating in the program integrate into Southwestern's academic culture, where they not only co-teach courses but also host insightful roundtable discussions, covering topics from their personal journeys to the bench to insights into the nuances of clerkships.  

With Chief Judge Gutierrez’s appointment, Southwestern Law School continues its longstanding tradition of excellence in legal education, offering students the guidance and practical skills to go on to leave a mark in the judiciary.