Irvine, Calif. – JAMS, the premier provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, is pleased to announce that Hon. Sean Cox (Ret.) has received the Judicial Excellence Award from the Litigation Section of the State Bar of Michigan. The award was presented on May 14 at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn.

The Judicial Excellence Award recognizes judges who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to justice, fairness and impartiality; contribute meaningfully to the law; uphold civility within the legal profession; and show strong community involvement or innovation in the justice system. Recipients are recognized for superior judicial performance and adherence to the highest standards of the judiciary.

“Judge Cox has earned respect throughout his career for his sound judgment, professionalism and service to the legal community. This recognition reflects his long-standing commitment to the integrity of the judicial system and the thoughtful leadership he brings to every matter he handles. We are proud to have Judge Cox on our panel and congratulate him on this well-deserved honor.”

Kimberly Taylor, JAMS CEO and president

Judge Cox joined JAMS following nearly 30 years of judicial service. During his tenure on the federal bench, he presided over complex civil and criminal matters, including multidistrict litigation, class actions and the Volkswagen AG Clean Air Act case, which resulted in a $2.8 billion criminal penalty. He is also widely recognized for helping resolve major public disputes involving the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, the creation of the Great Lakes Water Authority and Detroit’s municipal bankruptcy.

Prior to taking the bench, Judge Cox was a trial lawyer and partner at Cummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho, where he focused on municipal and personal injury litigation, including medical malpractice. Drawing on decades of judicial and litigation experience, he brings a practical, thoughtful approach to dispute resolution and is known for helping parties navigate complex matters toward resolution.

About JAMS – The Way Forward

JAMS is the premier provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, with more than 500 neutrals across 29 locations. In 2025, JAMS received nearly 22,000 new case filings and handled more than 28,000 matters during the year. Founded in 1979, the organization’s distinguished panel includes retired federal and state court judges, former litigators, transactional attorneys and other ADR professionals with deep industry and practice area experience. 

JAMS offers customized in-person, virtual and hybrid resolution services to provide a seamless experience through concierge-level client care, highly skilled case managers and advanced technology.

Building on this foundation, JAMS Pathways provides organizations with early conflict resolution, facilitation and training, helping teams prevent disputes before they escalate.

With a legacy of trust and innovation, JAMS helps parties find the way forward so they can focus on what matters most. Learn more at www.jamsadr.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and the JAMS ADR blog.