Hon. Winifred Speaking at the Class Action Law Forum™ Mass Torts Summit
New for 2026, we are excited to host Western Alliance Bank's Class Action Law ForumTM Mass Torts Summit at the Pendry San Diego in collaboration with the University of San Diego Law. The summit directly benefits the Western Alliance Bank Scholarship Fund, supporting a USD Law School student in financial need. Join
Debra Bogaards & MyKhanh Shelton Speaking at WITTS
The 5th Annual Women in Trial Travel Summit® (WITTS) will take place at the stunning Conrad resort in Punta Mita, Mexico. Hosted by Lauren Wood—trial attorney with L Wood Law and the owner of Travel is the Cure—this unique attorney conference blends legal education with luxury travel. WITTS offers women
Breaking Ground Without Breaking Down: Mediating Land Use, Housing Law & CEQA Disputes
Come hear Dolores Dalton and Gideon Kracov discuss advanced tips and techniques for the mediation of difficult land use, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and housing law disputes. These cases often involve multiple interests with vastly different agendas—and charged emotions. Dolores Dalton is current TMS President and
Breaking Through Pretrial Logjams: The Power of Referees
Unlock the strategic benefits of using discovery referees to streamline civil litigation. In this program, retired judges Hon. James Lambden and Hon. Victoria Wood guide attorneys through the flexible authority of referees, breaking down obstacles like discovery disputes, stonewalling, and misbehaving counsel. Explore how
Inside the Capitol: Interactive Conversation with Sen. Henry Stern on California Lawmaking
Please join Henry Stern, California State Senator and environmental lawyer, for a conversation about making statewide environmental policy. The Chair of the Joint Committee on Climate Change Policies, Sen. Stern will lead an interactive conversation with Gideon Kracov, Mediator at ADR Services, Inc. and Boardmember California Air
Negotiating and Settling Tort Cases: Evaluating the Case, Making the Demand, Bargaining Directly or in Mediation
The reality is that most lawsuits settle. Thus, just as every case should have trial themes and discovery strategies, each one should have a settlement plan and strategy. But most lawyers mistakenly assume that what persuades a jury will persuade opposing counsel or meet the needs of the defendant’s insurers,
What Were You Thinking!?
Underlying every stage of the mediation process are hidden assumptions and biases which often go unexamined:
- Settlement negotiations should focus on objective criteria and outcome predictions
- Participants are rational actors looking out for their own economic interests
- Mediators should persuade, cajole, argue, twist arms, etc. in the same way regardless
Navigating Bankruptcy Without Sinking the Ship
Moderator:
Michael Cooper, Esq. – ADR Services, Inc. Panelists:
Ori Katz, Esq. – Sheppard Mullin
Jane Kim, Esq. – Keller Benvenutti Kim LLP Handout materials
Breaking a Stalemate
In mediation, it is not unusual that parties find themselves at a stalemate with seemingly no way to proceed. Join two of ADR Services, Inc.’s neutrals as they discuss strategies that your mediator can employ to help you move forward to successful resolution. This toolkit includes effective use of bracketing,
Breaking a Stalemate
Presented by the ACBA
Sponsored by ADR Services, Inc. In mediation, it is not unusual that parties find themselves at a stalemate with seemingly no way to proceed. Join two of ADR Services, Inc.’s neutrals as they discuss strategies that your mediator can employ to help you move forward
Navigating Bankruptcy Without Sinking the Ship
A nuts and bolts guide to managing litigation when a party files for bankruptcy. Date: July 27, 2022
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., Webinar
MCLE Credit: 1 hour general credit Moderator:
Michael Cooper, Esq. – ADR Services, Inc. Panelists:
The Shrinking Scope of Arbitration and Confidentiality Clauses in Sexual Harassment and FEHA Cases
The #MeToo movement continues to reshape the law at the federal and state level. On March 3, 2022, President Biden signed into law the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act of 2021 (Act), completely barring mandatory arbitration of sexual harassment cases nationwide. In California, the Silenced
ADR Services, Inc. Sponsoring: Virtual Fall Cooking Class and Social
Sponsored by ADR Section and Trusts & Estates Section of the Alameda County Bar Association Celebrate the start of fall with the Trusts & Estates and ADR Sections by cooking and eating a delicious California-inspired dinner, all from the comfort of your home! Expert Ben Mastracco of Ben Mastracco Food
WLALA – Making Virtual Mediation A Reality: A Primer for Women Lawyers of Los Angeles
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, U.S. Supreme Court Justice said: “You can’t have it all at once. Over my lifespan, I think I have had it all. But in different periods of time, things were rough.” In the midst of the Corona virus pandemic, all of us are experiencing those “rough times”; however, there are
Lindsey Bayman, Esq. Joins ADR Services, Inc.
ADR Services, Inc. is proud to welcome Lindsey Bayman, Esq. to our panel of distinguished neutrals. Ms. Bayman is a mediator with a strong track record of resolving complex civil disputes, particularly in the areas of employment, sexual assault and misconduct, entertainment, business litigation, and personal injury. She is widely
Mediating Wrongful Eviction & Habitability Claims: The Dynamic Interplay between Tenants, Landlords and Carriers
Mediation of affirmative tenant claims are never just two-sided disputes — they are multi-layered negotiations shaped by local eviction control ordinances, insurance coverage issues, and the value of the tenancy. Join Steve Abern (Mediator/Panel Counsel), Jacqueline Ravenscroft (Plaintiff’s Counsel), and Jeff Woo (Personal Counsel) for a candid, practical
About Our CLE Program
About ADR Services, Inc. CLE Program CLE opportunities designed for practicing attorneys — live and virtual.
ADR Services, Inc. is an award winning California State Bar certified MCLE provider offering high-quality continuing legal education programs to attorneys throughout California. ADR Services, Inc. has been recognized by The
Her Honor Series
Description: The South Bay Bar Association and Women Lawyers of Long Beach are excited to announce the relaunch of their acclaimed “Her Honor Series”. Throughout the series we will be interviewing judicial officers about their path to the bench and the lessons they learned along the way. Each episode will
Selvin, Gary
Gary R. Selvin, Esq. brings more than four decades of experience at the highest levels of insurance coverage, bad faith, and complex civil litigation to his work as a neutral. Over the course of his career, he has advised insurers and businesses nationwide, tried and appealed high-exposure cases in state
Government Writ Practice 201
Save the date for the Inaugural Public Law Conference, a new forum designed to explore the changing landscape of public law and public-sector governance. This event brings together practitioners, policymakers, and public servants for essential training, timely discussions, and practical insights that support effective government at every level. The program will feature
Pauly, Drew
Andrew S. (“Drew”) Pauly is an accomplished legal professional with over four decades of litigation and dispute resolution experience. Specializing in real estate, commercial, partnership, entertainment, and lending disputes, he has a proven ability to navigate complex legal matters and facilitate equitable resolutions as both neutral and counsel. He is
How to Win and How to Defeat MSJ
Description: This CLE presentation breaks down the art and science of winning—and defeating—motions for summary judgment. We’ll cover the strategic timing of evidence development, how to frame undisputed material facts, the most persuasive ways to weaponize the Separate Statement, and the traps that routinely sink MSJs and MSJ oppositions. Attendees
Cooper, Michael
Prominent bankruptcy attorney, Michael D. Cooper, Esq., provides mediation services that are strengthened by his decades of experience as an attorney handling complex bankruptcy and commercial law matters, including the representation of debtors, creditors and trustees in insolvency, workouts and bankruptcy cases. As a recognized expert in the field, Mr.
Her Honor Series Feat. Hon. Margaret Oldendorf (Ret.)
The South Bay Bar Association and Women Lawyers of Long Beach are excited to announce the relaunch of their acclaimed “Her Honor Series.” Throughout the series we will be interviewing judicial officers about their path to the bench and lessons they learned along the way. Each episode will focus on
Ethics in ADR: Navigating Mediation and Arbitration Challenges in Modern Practice
This program explores the most pressing ethical issues lawyers face in mediation and arbitration — from confidentiality and client decision-making to disclosure obligations and arbitrator impartiality. Designed to be practical and engaging, the session blends short presentations with group discussions and interactive exercises that help participants apply ethical principles to
Ramirez, Daniel
Hon. Daniel P. Ramirez (Ret.) is a full-time mediator with ADR Services, Inc., bringing over 26 years of civil and family law judicial experience. Appointed to the Los Angeles Municipal Court in 1994 – one of the youngest judges ever named to the bench – he later served on the
Hon John J. Kralik (Ret.) Joins ADR Services, Inc.
After more than four decades immersed in litigation, law, and the courts, Judge John J. Kralik (Ret.) has dedicated his career to resolving disputes from every angle of the legal system. His path began at Hughes Hubbard & Reed, where he rose from associate to partner by the age of
Kralik, John
After more than four decades immersed in litigation, law, and the courts, Hon. John J. Kralik (Ret.) has dedicated his career to resolving disputes from every angle of the legal system. His path began at Hughes Hubbard & Reed, where he rose from associate to partner by the age of
When Bad is Enough
Speakers, a litigator, sitting judge, and retired judge turned mediator, will discuss how best to use a litigator’s toolbox of case management orders and RFOs to deal with litigants and “overly zealous” attorneys to try and curb bad behavior short of seeking Family Code 271 sanctions.
From Crisis to Command: Winning in Court and the Media
At the ABTL Wailea Conference, this dynamic panel will explore how lawyers and clients can navigate high-stakes litigation under the glare of public scrutiny. Using a realistic fact pattern enhanced with mock press releases, news coverage, and even simulated media interviews, panelists will demonstrate how legal teams must manage both
Mediation Advocacy for Litigators: Engaging in Facilitated Negotiations from a Position of Strength
Too often, settlement is mistakenly seen as giving in. In reality, mediation—when approached strategically is one of the most powerful tools a litigator has to deliver results. Zealous advocacy doesn’t end when you leave the courtroom; your clients expect you to go to bat for them at every stage, and
SMCTLA Virtual Seminar 2025: Mastering Settlement: Strategies from Every Seat at the Table
Description: Seminar Registration is open through September 24 at 12:15 p.m. Registration includes online digital materials. Your MCLE certificate of attendance will be emailed to you within 14 working days following the event.Speakers: Hon. Marie S. Weiner (Ret.) – ADR Services, Inc. Paula Vielman-Reeves – ADZ Law
Behind the Curtain: Appellate Strategy for High-Profile Litigation
Description:
Appellate strategy doesn’t begin after trial—it begins the moment a case is filed. In high-profile disputes, where the stakes are amplified by media coverage, public perception, and evolving areas of law, careful planning is critical at every stage. This program will highlight how trial lawyers can collaborate effectively
Belli Trial & Mediation Skills Seminar
In the spirit of the late Melvin Belli, this seminar serves as a forum to learn innovative strategies, tactics, and techniques to help your law firm thrive. This year, learn from top legal minds and discover how new ways to increase the value of your cases. The 3.5 hour seminar is
Lance, James
James R. Lance, Esq. brings more than 38 years of experience as a highly successful and respected trial attorney to ADR Services, Inc. Throughout his career Mr. Lance has represented both plaintiffs and defendants in complex, high-stakes disputes, which gives him a unique perspective on the needs, priorities, and pressures
Pizer, Bradley
With nearly four decades of distinguished legal experience, Bradley J. Pizer has seamlessly transitioned from a recognized litigator and trusted advisor to financial institutions into a highly effective neutral with ADR Services, Inc. Mr. Pizer brings his analytical acuity, calm authority, and deep sector knowledge to the alternative dispute resolution
LA Superior, Unlocked: A Judge’s Guide to Practicing in Los Angeles
Thinking of expanding your practice into Los Angeles? Before you step into a new courtroom, join Hon. David Sotelo (Ret.)—a seasoned former Los Angeles Superior Court judge—for a practical insider’s guide to navigating the unique structure, culture, and expectations of the LA court system. This program is designed
Lee, Jo-Lynne
Hon. Jo-Lynne Lee (Ret.) brings more than four decades of legal experience to her role as a neutral, including over 20 years on the bench and two decades as a civil litigator and court-appointed Special Master. Appointed to the Alameda County Superior Court in 2002, she made history as the
Inside Settlement: Judicial and Attorney Perspectives on Effective Resolution Strategies
Maximize your chances of resolution by understanding how to effectively engage with the court’s settlement program and mediation. In this dynamic CLE program, Hon. Vedica Puri (Ret.), a former settlement judge, joins renowned plaintiff’s attorney Doris Cheng and seasoned defense counsel Chris Scheley to provide a 360-degree view
Get to Know Debra Bogaards
A Mediator Who Listens, Connects, and Resolves with a settlement rate exceeding 98%, Debra Bogaards, Esq., has earned a reputation as one of the most effective and empathetic mediators working today. Known for her thorough preparation, tenacity, and deep legal acumen spanning over four decades, Debra mediates disputes across a
Elimination of Bias
Soak up summertime fun with a getaway to the mountains. Earn MCLE, including specialty credits. Spend time with your family and friends, hiking through the wildflowers, swimming in the pools or at the lake, and enjoy camaraderie with your fellow ADC colleagues. This is a “Do Not Miss” opportunity.
Resolution on the Brink: Mediating High-Stakes Disputes When Time Is Running Out
When negotiations stall and trial looms, experienced mediators know that breaking impasse requires more than persistence—it requires insight into what’s really holding the case back. In this practical, example-driven CLE, former settlement judges Hon. Suzanne Bolanos (Ret.) and Hon. Kathleen Kelly (Ret.) draw from
MyKhanh Shelton, Esq. Joins ADR Services, Inc.
ADR Services, Inc. is proud to welcome MyKhanh Shelton, Esq. to our panel of distinguished neutrals. With over 25 years of experience as a litigator, in-house employment lawyer, and senior executive at Fortune 500 companies, MyKhanh brings a unique blend of legal acumen, practical business insight, conflict resolution expertise, and
Shelton, MyKhanh
With over 25 years of experience as a litigator, in-house employment lawyer, and senior executive at Fortune 500 companies, MyKhanh Shelton, Esq. brings a unique blend of legal acumen, practical business insight, conflict resolution expertise, and emotional intelligence to her full-time employment mediation practice. MyKhanh began her legal career as
Bolanos, Suzanne
With over two decades of experience as a Judge, Hon. Suzanne Ramos Bolanos (Ret.) brings unparalleled expertise and insight to dispute resolution across a wide range of areas, including complex commercial disputes, employment, and medical malpractice. Whether from the bench as a judge, at the negotiation table as a settlement
Appellate Justice Thomas M. Goethals (Ret.) Joins ADR Services, Inc.
Hon. Thomas M. Goethals (Ret.) brings a wealth of experience, insight, and professionalism to his work as a dispute resolution neutral. Over nearly five decades, he has served as a trial lawyer, criminal prosecutor, Superior Court judge, and appellate justice. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep understanding of
Hon. Vedica Puri (Ret.) Joins ADR Services, Inc.
For over 30 years, Hon. Vedica Puri (Ret.) has been at the forefront of litigation and dispute resolution—first as a trial lawyer, then as a respected judge, and now as a mediator. Her legal career has been defined by an unwavering commitment to justice, first-hand knowledge of trial dynamics, and
Goethals, Thomas
Hon. Thomas M. Goethals (Ret.) brings a wealth of experience, insight, and professionalism to his work as a dispute resolution neutral. Over nearly five decades, he has served as a trial lawyer, criminal prosecutor, Superior Court judge, and appellate justice. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep understanding of
Adams, Verna
Specializing in Family Law and Probate Hon. Verna Adams (Ret.) is a nationally recognized expert in mediation and adjudication of complex family law and probate cases. She is a judicial leader and retired Superior Court Judge with more than two decades of service on the Marin County Superior
Kelly, Kathleen
Lee M. Mendelson, Esq. Joins ADR Services, Inc.
For over 27 years, Lee Mendelson has been at the forefront of civil litigation, advocating for clients in high-stakes disputes across a broad spectrum of legal matters. His expertise spans insurance coverage, personal injury, subrogation, workers’ compensation, product liability, debtor/creditor disputes, and real estate conflicts. Throughout his distinguished career as
Puri, Vedica
Hon. Vedica Puri: A Distinctive Approach to Resolution Rare 360° Trial Perspective
Extensive experience as defense counsel, plaintiff counsel, and trial judge—allowing her to evaluate risk the way each decision-maker actually does. Insurance Coverage & Bad Faith Expertise
Deep expertise in policy interpretation, insurer responsibilities and
Actuarial Case Valuation in Mediation
Actuarial case valuation integrates probability theory and actuarial principles to create a settlement range based on each party’s own valuation. This approach shifts mediation from positional bargaining to data-driven analysis, fostering collaboration, breaking deadlocks, and guiding realistic settlement discussions. Participants will learn how this method promotes trust, adjusts for litigation
Hon. Stephen M. Pulido (Ret.) Joins ADR Services, Inc.
For more than four decades, Hon. Stephen Pulido (Ret.) has been a steadfast presence in the legal community, known for his fairness, depth of knowledge, and ability to navigate even the most complex disputes. With 46 years in the legal profession, including 18 years on the Alameda County Superior Court
Pulido, Stephen
For more than four decades, Hon. Stephen Pulido (Ret.) has been a steadfast presence in the legal community, known for his fairness, depth of knowledge, and ability to navigate even the most complex disputes. With 46 years in the legal profession, including 18 years on the Alameda County Superior Court
Implicit Bias: Turning Awareness into Action
This program explores implicit bias in the legal profession and its impact on decision-making, advocacy, and access to justice. Participants will delve into the origins and types of bias, including affinity bias and unconscious categorization. Through self-awareness exercises and actionable strategies, attendees will learn how to identify and reduce unintended
Mendelson, Lee
For over 27 years, Lee Mendelson, Esq. has been at the forefront of civil litigation, advocating for clients in high-stakes disputes across a broad spectrum of legal matters. His expertise spans insurance coverage, personal injury, subrogation, workers’ compensation, product liability, debtor/creditor disputes, real estate conflicts, and employment. Throughout his distinguished
Levin, Ted
Ted Levin, P.E., Esq., is a distinguished attorney and registered civil engineer with an unparalleled blend of technical and legal expertise. With over 38 years of experience, Mr. Levin has built a reputation as a leader in construction law, professional liability, and dispute resolution. With his comprehensive understanding of the
ADR Services, Inc. Proudly Welcomes Retired Court of Appeal Justice Patricia Benke
Hon. Patricia Benke is a distinguished legal professional with over 40 years of service in the judiciary and legal field. She brings unparalleled expertise and a deep commitment to justice to her new role as a neutral with ADR Services, Inc. Her career reflects an unwavering dedication to fostering fair
Benke, Patricia
Hon. Patricia Benke is a distinguished legal professional with over 40 years of service in the judiciary and legal field. She brings unparalleled expertise and a deep commitment to justice to her new role as a neutral with ADR Services, Inc. Her career reflects an unwavering dedication to fostering fair
Michael R. Nebenzahl, Esq. Joins ADR Services, Inc.
Michael R. Nebenzahl, Esq. brings over 40 years of extensive litigation experience to his role as a mediator. A seasoned trial attorney and respected legal professional, Mr. Nebenzahl has handled some of California’s most complex and high-stakes civil cases, including public entity defense, catastrophic injury claims, and civil rights litigation.
Nebenzahl, Michael
American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) Member
Weiner, Marie
With an illustrious judicial career spanning over two decades, Hon. Marie Weiner has made a profound impact on California’s legal system, particularly in civil litigation. Her work has been marked by an unwavering commitment to fairness, judicial efficiency, and legal excellence. Judge Weiner served on the Superior Court of San
Belli Trial Skills Seminar
In the spirit of the late Melvin Belli, this seminar serves as a forum to learn innovative strategies, tactics, and techniques to help your law firm thrive. This year, learn from top legal minds and discover how to get a jury or mediator to understand and value the human loss
Pathway to the Settlement of a Catastrophic Injury Case
For clients with permanent catastrophic injuries, reaching a settlement can be a particularly complex process with many players involved and numerous factors to consider. It is critical for attorneys to be well-versed in all aspects of the settlement process while also closely considering the long-term needs of their clients. Drawing
ADR Section Annual Dinner
We are honored to welcome Judge Anita Santos (Ret.) as our distinguished speaker for a fireside chat with Johanna Kwasniewski and Benissa Berry as our moderators. During this engaging conversation, Judge Santos will share insights on: Her background and personal journey, The factors that
How to Prepare for and Effectively Participate in Mediation of Employment and Tort Cases
Two experienced mediators and a leading employment attorney will share their tips about how to prepare for and participate in all the stages of the mediation process, with special emphasis on labor and employment, and tort cases. Topics will include how to get ready for the mediation, negotiation skills, and
6th Annual Women’s Impact Network (WIN) Conference – Women in Leadership and Law
Join us at our Annual Women in Network Conference—a dynamic event designed for women lawyers to learn, connect, and grow. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, expand your professional network, and engage with like-minded peers. Don’t miss out on an inspiring day of learning, networking, and empowerment!
Behind Closed Doors: Inside a Mock Mediation of a Landlord/Tenant Dispute
The stage is set: The mediation is scheduled for October 22, 2024 at 12 p.m. Join real life Mediator Debra Bogaards, as she works with plaintiff’s counsel Jacqueline Ravenscroft and defense counsel Erin Poppler to present a mock mediation of this Landlord/Tenant dispute. The fact pattern will be fake, but the negotiation
Mediation Bootcamp Series Part 1: Nuts & Bolts
Join us for this instructional Mediation Bootcamp Series designed to provide legal professionals with a comprehensive understanding of and introduction to the mediation process. Part 1 will cover the role of mediation in litigation, key distinctions between mediation and settlement conferences, and the critical elements of confidentiality and mediator conduct
Maximizing Membership: Harnessing the Full Power of Professional Memberships
This panel will explore strategic approaches to choosing professional organization membership. We will discuss how to carefully select associations that align with your career goals and industry focus. We’ll delve into methods for fully utilizing membership benefits, from networking opportunities to continuing education and leadership roles. Ultimately, attendees will gain
Chaney, Victoria
Hon. Victoria Gerrard Chaney (Ret.) is a distinguished mediator, arbitrator, referee, and appellate consultant with an illustrious career spanning more than four decades. Justice Chaney was confirmed to the California Court of Appeal, Second District, Division One in 2009 following nineteen years as a trial judge. Her experience as an
Family Meeting: Strategies in Family Law Mediation and Settlement
Join us for this engaging panel discussion focused on enhancing your family law practice through advanced mediation and settlement techniques. This program is designed for family law attorneys seeking to optimize their strategies and make the most effective use of their time with neutrals. Led by moderator Alice Cheng of
Mastering PMK (Person Most Knowledgeable) Depositions – Perspectives from Both Sides of the Table
Join us for this webinar on the intricacies of PMK (Person Most Knowledgeable) depositions, a critical aspect of legal proceedings involving corporate entities. We will hear from three key perspectives. From plaintiff’s perspective, we will see strategies and considerations for noticing a PMK deposition, particularly focusing on the challenges and
Settlement Strategies
Join us for an engaging and informative MCLE Program on Settlement Strategies, led by two of Alameda County’s esteemed former settlement judges, Hon. Paul Herbert (ret.) and Hon. Evelio Grillo (ret.) This program is designed to equip attorneys with advanced skills and knowledge to
Abern, Steven
Mediator • Special Master Steven Abern, Esq. brings unparalleled expertise to ADR Services, Inc. His extensive legal career spans 34 years, during which he served as the Managing Partner at Haapala, Thompson & Abern, one of the preeminent insurance defense firms in the Bay Area. His legal acumen
Lowell Haky, Esq. Joins ADR Services, Inc.
ADR Services, Inc. is proud to welcome Lowell Haky, Esq. to our panel of distinguished neutrals. Mr. Haky is a talented mediator offering broad expertise in the financial services industry. With extensive experience in securities, asset management, banking, ERISA, trade secrets, employment, and real estate, Mr. Haky has a unique
Haky, Lowell
MEDIATOR – ARBITRATOR Lowell Haky, Esq. is a skilled mediator with extensive experience in the financial services industry (investment management, broker recruiting, employment, and trust & estate matters), employment cases (wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation) and real estate matters (landlord/tenant, construction defect, ownership disputes). Mr. Haky builds
Kramer, Mark
Drawing upon a career spanning over four decades as both a mediator and trial lawyer, Mark D. Kramer, Esq. utilizes his extensive experience to assist parties in resolving disputes, bringing invaluable expertise to the mediation field. Formerly a partner at the distinguished Los Angeles firm of Fonda and Garrard, Mr.
Keosian, Gregory
Hon. Gregory Keosian (Ret.) brings a distinguished background in law and dispute resolution to his role as a neutral at ADR Services, Inc. With an impressive 22 years of judicial experience and 16 years of civil litigation expertise, Judge Keosian is uniquely positioned to navigate complex legal matters and steer
Oldendorf , Margaret
Hon. Margaret L. Oldendorf (Ret.) joined ADR Services, Inc. in 2024 after nearly 20 years as a Judge of the Superior Court for the County of Los Angeles. During the last nine years of her judicial career, she presided over a Civil Independent Calendar Court and a Civil Trial Court
Grillo, Evelio
Hon. Evelio Grillo comes to ADR Services, Inc. with a strong background in mediation, settlement, and arbitration. Prior to joining ADR Services, Inc., Judge Grillo served as the Alameda County Superior Court’s primary settlement judge from 2012 to 2017 and as the court’s Supervising Settlement Judge from 2017 to 2019.
Family Law Mediation vs. Civil Litigation Mediation: Getting Cases Settled
A family law judge turned mediator and a civil litigator turned mediator discuss getting cases settled in mediation. Differences between family law mediation and civil litigation mediation in (i) when to mediate; (ii) finding your mediator; (iii) pre-mediation (iv) conducting the mediation; (v) what happens after the mediation; (vi) barriers
Gideon Kracov, Esq. Joins ADR Services, Inc.
Gideon Kracov, Esq. is a distinguished mediator with 30 years of experience specializing in civil, environmental, and real estate cases. Mr. Kracov offers demonstrated expertise honed by 30 years of experience providing dispute resolution services to a diverse clientele, including businesses, individuals, labor organizations, and non-profit entities. He has an
Linn, Peter
Peter J. Linn brings more than 25 years of trial-tested litigation experience to his current work as a full-time neutral, where he is known for his rigorous preparation, grounded insights, and results-oriented approach. Since transitioning to alternative dispute resolution, Mr. Linn has mediated more than 500 matters and earned consistent
Hon. Paul Herbert (Ret.) Joins ADR Services, Inc.
ADR Services, Inc. is proud to announce the addition of Hon. Paul D. Herbert (Ret.) to our panel of distinguished neutrals. With a distinguished legal career spanning decades, Judge Herbert brings a wealth of experience and a stellar reputation for legal acumen, impartiality, and a deep commitment to justice. Beginning
Hon. Paul A. Bacigalupo, Ret. Joins ADR Services, Inc.
ADR Services, Inc. is thrilled to announce the newest addition to our esteemed panel of neutrals – Hon. Paul A. Bacigalupo, Ret. With over two decades of distinguished service as a Judge of the Los Angeles Superior Court, Judge Bacigalupo brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new
Lessons Learned: Cautionary Tales from Litigators and Mediators for Estate Planners and Trust and Estate Administrators
Presenters Bette Epstein and Richard Collier have decades of experience both litigating and mediating inheritance disputes. This program will address issues that arise for trust and estate counsel from the time the proposed client walks in the door through the administration of the estate. Their discussion will include recognizing and
Bacigalupo, Paul
Hon. Paul A. Bacigalupo, Ret. joined ADR Services, Inc. in 2024 after 22 years as a Judge of the Los Angeles Superior Court. In 2014, Judge Bacigalupo was assigned to the Van Nuys courthouse, where he conducted mandatory settlement conferences full-time for the last four years of his judicial career.
Hon. Victoria Wood (Ret.) Joins ADR Services, Inc.
ADR Services, Inc. is proud to welcome Hon. Victoria Wood (Ret.), former Judge of the Napa County Superior Court. Judge Wood’s judicial tenure was marked by versatility, as she has presided over a wide range of cases in various assignments, including civil, probate, family, criminal, and juvenile matters. Her responsibilities
Kracov, Gideon
Mediator • Special Master Gideon Kracov is a distinguished mediator with thirty years of experience in civil, real estate, and environmental matters. He has an extensive background navigating complex legal disputes, coupled with significant experience at the highest levels of California state government. Using his mediation and facilitation
Lessons Learned: Cautionary Tales from Litigators and Mediators for Estate Planners and Trust and Estate Administrators
Presenters Bette Epstein and Richard Collier have decades of experience both litigating and mediating trust and estate disputes. This program will address issues that arise for trust and estate counsel from the time the proposed client walks in the door through the completion of the administration of the estate. Among
2024 Bay Area Women Lawyers’ Retreat (BAWLR)
ADR Services, Inc. is proud to sponsor the 5th annual BAWLR event. Women lawyers from all practice areas, from both sides of the aisle, mediators, and judges will converge in Northern California for the weekend. This is a weekend retreat with plenty of opportunity to develop relationships, learn from amazing
Wood, Victoria
Hon. Victoria Wood (Ret.) established her successful track record of settling highly disputed cases during her time as a Judge for the Superior Court of Napa County where she served her community with dedication for nearly two decades. Prior to her appointment to the bench in 2013, she gained extensive
Debra Bogaards, Esq. Joins ADR Services, Inc.
ADR Services, Inc. is proud to announce the addition of Debra Bogaards, Esq. to our panel of neutrals. Debra Bogaards, Esq. has served as a private mediator for over five years, as well as a settlement officer for almost 30 years. Her extensive career highlights a remarkable track record of