Raoul Cantero is a former Florida Supreme Court justice, fluent in Spanish, with 39 years of experience handling a broad range of legal issues—as a lawyer, judge, and arbitrator, both in court and in arbitration.
In a recent conversation, former Raoul reflected on his path from the bench to ADR, sharing how his judicial experience informs his efficient approach to resolving complex disputes as a neutral with the AAA. Here's what he shared with us.
Q: Can you tell us about your judicial background—where you served, the types of cases you presided over, how many years you were on the bench, and any accomplishments or moments you’re particularly proud of?
Raoul: I was appointed to the Florida Supreme Court in 2002 by then-Governor Jeb Bush, becoming the first justice of Hispanic descent and one of the youngest ever to serve on the Court. During my six-year tenure, I heard hundreds of appeals and authored more than 100 opinions in cases ranging from commercial disputes and criminal matters to administrative proceedings. I served on the Court until 2008, when my family and I returned to Miami, and I joined White & Case LLP.
Q: What led you to transition from the bench to arbitration and mediation work with the AAA?
Raoul: My experience as a justice—analyzing complex legal issues, weighing competing arguments, and reaching fair, well-reasoned decisions—naturally translated to the work of an arbitrator and mediator. Serving as a neutral with the AAA allows me to continue doing what I value most: helping parties resolve challenging disputes efficiently and equitably.
Q: What do you value most about serving as an arbitrator or mediator with the AAA?
Raoul: What I value most is the opportunity to tackle complex legal issues and help parties move toward resolution—often without the need for a final hearing. I take pride in maintaining objectivity and neutrality throughout the process, ensuring each party feels heard and treated fairly.
Q: How does your experience as a judge shape your approach as a neutral in ADR proceedings?
Raoul: Serving for six years as a Justice on the Florida Supreme Court taught me how to distill even the most complex cases down to their essential issues—identifying what truly matters to the outcome. That experience sharpened my ability to cut through distractions, focus on the core legal questions, and deliver clear, well-reasoned decisions.
Q: What advice would you give to parties or advocates preparing for arbitration or mediation?
Raoul: Always structure your arguments to present yourself as the most reasonable person in the room. Frame your requests as logical and fair, and never misrepresent or stretch the facts in a way that could undermine your credibility.