Judge Robert Draper brings decades of high-level legal experience and a long career built on handling complex, high-stakes cases.

Before taking the bench, Draper spent more than 25 years as a business litigator in downtown Los Angeles, representing major corporations and handling sophisticated disputes involving some of the largest companies in the country. His work placed him in high-pressure environments where preparation, precision, and accountability were essential. 

He later served as a partner at O’Melveny & Myers, where he developed a reputation as a serious trial lawyer known for his focus, discipline, and ability to manage complex litigation. 

In 2012, Draper made the decision to leave private practice and enter public service, accepting appointment to the Los Angeles County Superior Court by Governor Jerry Brown. At the time, he was one of the oldest individuals appointed to the bench in California, reflecting both the depth of his experience and the respect he had earned over the course of his legal career. 

On the bench, Judge Draper has presided over a wide range of civil matters, including high-value business disputes and cases involving significant financial and legal complexity. He is known for running an efficient courtroom, focusing on the issues at hand, and expecting attorneys to be prepared and direct. 

Colleagues and attorneys who have appeared before him describe a judge who is straightforward, focused, and unwilling to tolerate unnecessary delay or gamesmanship. At the same time, he is recognized for his ability to manage cases effectively and move proceedings forward in a clear and structured way. 

Over the course of his career, Draper has handled matters involving everything from complex corporate litigation to disputes affecting individuals and small businesses. His background gives him a practical understanding of how legal decisions impact both large institutions and everyday litigants.

Judge Draper’s approach to the law has remained consistent: focus on the facts, apply the law, and move cases toward resolution.