Judge Philip Gutierrez is a retired United States District Judge who served in the Central District of California from 2007 to 2024. Appointed to the bench by President George W. Bush, he served as a judge on the Los Angeles Superior Court from 1997 to 2007. With over 35 years of experience as a trial lawyer and state and federal court judge, Judge Gutierrez was a founding member of the United States District Court’s Patent Pilot Program.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
- [5:26] Judge Philip Gutierrez discusses growing up in East LA, his early behavioral issues, and discovering mentorship through tennis
- [7:17] How Judge Gutierrez gained experience in the courtroom by meeting influential mentors at his mother’s job
- [12:23] Judge Gutierrez credits his English teacher for inspiring him to attend Notre Dame and study abroad
- [23:56] Judge Gutierrez’s decision to attend law school and how he overcame impostor syndrome
- [32:07] The first case Judge Gutierrez tried in legal malpractice and how he began litigating across practice areas
- [41:03] How Judge Gutierrez gave back to his community through mentorship
- [47:25] Creating a welcoming courtroom environment and building trust with jurors
- [50:49] Advice to incoming trial lawyers: Be yourself and tell a story
- [53:53] Reflections on public protests, courthouse safety, and preserving access to justice
- [59:41] Judge Gutierrez’s current endeavors and the legacy he hopes to leave
In this episode…
Aspiring lawyers from underrepresented communities often struggle to see themselves reflected in the legal system, leading to self-doubt and a lack of direction. Without early exposure or mentorship, many capable students feel overwhelmed or unsure how to navigate law school or pursue a judicial career. How can these students gain confidence, guidance, and opportunities to carve a path in the legal profession?
Retired federal judge Philip Gutierrez leveraged mentorship from a Benedictine brother, a high school English teacher, and a federal judge to overcome imposter syndrome in law school and launch a career as a trial lawyer. Judge Gutierrez emphasizes the importance of finding joy in your work, building a strong reputation, and giving back to future generations through mentorship and public service. He also advises pursuing your passion and staying grounded to build both a career and character.
Tune in to this episode of The Lawtino as John Gomez, Vanessa Felix Corona, and Lara Deitz interview Judge Philip Gutierrez about his journey from growing up in East LA to becoming a federal judge. Judge Gutierrez talks about a judge’s public service responsibility, how to create inclusive courtrooms, and his budding legacy.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- John Gomez on LinkedIn
- Vanessa Felix Corona on LinkedIn
- Lara Deitz on LinkedIn
- Gomez Trial Attorneys: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook
- Judge Philip Gutierrez on LinkedIn
- Making it Make Sense with Lawtinas Exec. podcast on YouTube
Quotable Moments:
- “You don’t stop doubting until you really believe in yourself, and that was the switch.”
- “If you like or love something, you’re usually pretty good at it.”
- “It’s important to dream big because your dreams that will happen will be bigger than anything imagined.”
- “Treating other people with dignity and respect… your reputation starts in law school, if not before that.”
- “My mother, the master manipulator, got me to believe later in life it was my idea.”
Action Steps:
- Share your story with authenticity: Speaking openly about personal struggles and successes can inspire others to believe in their potential. Vulnerability fosters connection and demonstrates that overcoming adversity is possible.
- Seek mentors and become one: Mentorship is a powerful tool for professional and personal growth. Giving and receiving guidance can shape careers and build lasting community impact.
- Embrace opportunities outside your comfort zone: Taking risks, like studying abroad or accepting challenging trials, develops confidence and perspective. Growth often comes from unfamiliar environments that push you to adapt and excel.
- Treat everyone with dignity and respect: A consistent track record of respectful behavior enhances your professional reputation and builds trust. It’s also essential for leadership roles, including appointments to the bench.
- Pursue what you love in law: Finding passion in your practice area sustains motivation through the profession’s inherent challenges. Enjoying your work is key to long-term success and satisfaction in the legal field.
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by Gomez Trial Attorneys, a personal injury law firm based in San Diego.
Award-winning attorney John Gomez developed a nationally recognized legal team that goes above and beyond for injured clients.
With numerous designations, distinctions, and top-notch resources, we have what it takes to fight and win against major corporations.
For a free case evaluation, visit https://www.thegomezfirm.com/contact/.