My perspective on dispute resolution has been cultivated from three decades of civil litigation and trial work. I employ the most effective and proven dispute resolution techniques acquired from in-person participation in more than 100 mediations and intensive training and certification programs through the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, and the King County Dispute Resolution Center.
Drawing from my litigation experience and applying these proven methods, togther with a dose of self deprecating humor, I have facilitated resolution of numerous disputes involving sexual harrassment, retaliation/whistleblower, partnership dissolution, consumer protection, construction defects, and personal injury.
I follow the facilitative approach to conflict resolution and have as much investment in the process as the outcome. Rather than making recommendations or imposing decisions, I encourage parties to reach their own voluntary solution by exploring deeper, and perhaps up-to-that-point, unexpressed interests, and desire for certainty in the outcome. I may use an evaluative approach, or a combination of evaluative and facilitative, depending on the nature of the dispute and only if the parties express a desire for a candid assessment. I follow the Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators adopted by the ABA, AAA, and the Association for Conflict Resolution that emphasize: 1) party self-determination, 2) impartiality, 3) avoidance of conflicts of interest, 4) competence, 5) confidentiality, and 6) quality of process.
Laying the groundwork for resolution in advance of the mediation session is critical. Advance preparation for each session includes introductory discussions with counsel to review the mediation format, discuss pre-mediation logistics and review any substantive issues that may enhance or potentially hinder the mediation process.
Even in the hardest fought cases, resolution with the assistance of a trained neutral is possible; however, it is a process that requires creativity—and most of all, patience.
