Joseph Scott (July 16, 1867 - March 24, 1958) was a prominent British-born attorney and community leader in Los Angeles, California. His service to the community was so varied and important that he earned the nickname "Mr. Los Angeles."

Scott was born in Penrith, Cumbria, England in 1867. His father, Joseph, was a Scottish Presbyterian and his mother Mary (née Donnelly) was an Irish Catholic, but young Joseph was raised Catholic. His father was tolerant and quiet, while his mother instilled a sense of respect and hard work in him.

He attended Ushaw College, a seminary in Durham, County Durham, England, that trained Catholic priests and educated lay boys. He attended and graduated from the University of London.