Joanna Curtis

Joanna Curtis serves as WLALA’s Communication Officer on the Executive Committee and as a member of the Board of Directors. Joanna co-chaired WLALA’s Litigation Committee prior to serving on the EC.

With a career defined by advocacy and sophisticated problem-solving, Joanna joined Signature Resolution as a mediator, arbitrator, and special master with a reputation for being the voice of reason in every room. From a young age, Joanna knew she wanted to attend law school and become a lawyer so she could advocate for others. That early sense of purpose, to give people a voice during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, has remained a cornerstone of her career, shaping every role she has taken on inside and outside the courtroom.

Joanna transitioned to mediating after decades as an accomplished prosecutor, most notably serving for over 15 years as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Central and Southern Districts of California. She found that the same satisfaction she once felt after a trial win now comes from the moment a case reaches settlement. She views mediation as a vital opportunity to lift the heavy burden of conflict from the parties, allowing them to move forward with a newfound clarity.

Joanna’s senior leadership roles at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, serving as Chief of both the Violent and Organized Crime and General Crimes sections, further shaped her ability to manage complex dynamics and translate high-stakes legal issues into clear, actionable guidance. Her extensive work with victims, recognized by the Victim Witness Section for her compassion and effectiveness, enables her to navigate the intense human dimensions of conflict.

Following her tenure in public service, Joanna joined Fox Law as Senior Trial Counsel, representing victims of utility-caused wildfires and those harmed by serious negligence. This experience, combined with her comprehensive courtroom background, provides her with a grounded perspective on the unpredictability and significant costs of trial.

As an instructor of Trial Practice at Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law, she emphasizes the value of reputation and civility. Teaching at her alma mater allows her not only to educate students on trial practice, but also to mentor them as they navigate career paths, professional development, and the search for meaningful opportunities after graduation.

Joanna also brings a strong commitment to community and leadership to her work as a neutral. Deeply rooted in the Los Angeles area, she serves as a volunteer for the American Red Cross and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, where she provides support and wayfinding for families. She volunteers with these organizations so she can continue advocating for others beyond the courtroom, extending the same compassion, guidance, and support that has defined her legal career into the broader community.