Ep. 329 Robert Mestman
Robert Mestman: A Legacy of Justice—Orange County’s Senior Deputy DA on Integrity, Victim Advocacy, and the Pursuit of Truth
Robert Mestman is an Orange County Senior Deputy District Attorney who has dedicated more than 24 years to criminal prosecution and public safety. A graduate cum laude from Northwestern University School of Law with an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, Robert has spent the vast majority of his professional life in public service. His career is defined by a commitment to the fair administration of justice and the protection of the community’s most vulnerable residents.
Jeanne Pepper and Robert Mestman at the PeppTalks Studios on May 8th, 2026
Throughout his tenure, Robert has handled some of the most complex and serious criminal matters in Southern California, including homicides, gang-related crimes, sexual assaults, and elder abuse. His expertise extended to the federal level when he served as a Special Assistant United States Attorney, where he targeted public corruption and civil rights violations. This breadth of experience has made him a respected voice within the California District Attorneys Association, where he previously served on the Board of Directors.
One of Robert’s most significant contributions to the judicial system was his role in forming and supervising Orange County’s first Conviction Integrity Unit. This initiative highlights his belief that true justice requires not only the prosecution of the guilty but also the unwavering protection of the innocent and the transparency of the legal process. His leadership within the District Attorney’s Executive Management team saw him overseeing critical units ranging from felony trials to DNA technology.
Beyond the courtroom, Robert has been a proactive force in legislative advocacy. He has collaborated with bipartisan leaders to draft laws aimed at combating organized retail theft, addressing the fentanyl crisis, and strengthening penalties for environmental polluters. His work often focuses on closing loopholes that allow repeat offenders to avoid accountability, always with an eye toward enhancing public safety for families and seniors.
In his current pursuit of a seat on the Orange County Superior Court, Robert aims to bring his "common-sense" approach and ethical standards to the bench. He is widely endorsed by victim advocates, law enforcement, and members of the judiciary who recognize his tireless pursuit of justice. His mission remains clear: to ensure that every individual who enters a courtroom—whether victim, defendant, or witness—is treated with the utmost professionalism and respect.
Campaign Contact Information
Campaign Website: mestman4judge.com
Campaign Email: Mestman4Judge@gmail.com
Mailing Address: 9114 Adams Ave., #420, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
Campaign Finance ID: FPPC ID# 1467410 (Mestman for Judge 2026)Legal Disclaime
Key Campaign Details for June 2nd, 2026 election
Office Sought: Judge of the Superior Court of Orange County (Seat #13)
Episode 329
Episode Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Robert Mestman in this episode (No. 329) and within this publication are strictly his own. They do not reflect the official policy, position, or legal opinions of the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. Mr. Mestman appears in a personal capacity; his participation does not constitute an endorsement by the DA's office, nor does it represent the views of his employer or any government agency.
Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper
Guest: Robert Mestman, Senior Deputy District Attorney
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Original Theme Music: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to our volunteers
FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne
Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper
Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne
LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper
Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at Producers@PepptalkswithJeanne.com #PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward
