Mediation Philosophy

Opportunity
Mediation is generally the parties' best opportunity to save money and time, avoid the distraction of protracted litigation and eliminate risk. Whether the parties have voluntarily chosen to schedule mediation or have been court ordered to attend, they should view this day as an opportunity to resolve their differences at the lowest cost and with the least pain.
Preparation
I ask that all parties arrive prepared.  This requires that all mediation participants devote adequate time prior to the mediation to make the mediation process as productive as possible.  I will work with the parties prior to mediation to address issues including the identity of mediation attendees, submission and exchange of meditation statements, any ex parte submissions, damages calculations, and pre-mediation demands.
Respect
Mediation is an interactive process.  While the parties almost certainly will have disparate views on liability, case value, and overall risk, I urge the parties to listen respectfully and with open minds and to carefully consider the range of possible outcomes if they fail to achieve a negotiated resolution at mediation.  Respect for the other parties, their feelings and legal positions is paramount to a successful mediation. 
Creativity
Ms. Stern seeks to craft creative and effective resolutions to complex legal matters.  She listens intently to the parties in an effort to help them find common ground.  Ms. Stern has the ability to keenly identify the critical issues and focus the parties on workable solutions.  She quickly grasps the nuances of a dispute as well as the core issues, and leads the parties towards pragmatic solutions.
Closure
A successful mediation represents closure, allowing the parties to move on with their lives and businesses. The benefits of settlement almost always outweigh the financial, emotional and other costs of trial. No party will ever achieve 100% of what they want, but all parties should leave feeling they achieved a fair and equitable resolution of their differences.
Personal Touch
Ms. Stern draws on her three decades of experience settling cases as both a litigator and mediator to assist the parties in resolving disputes both large and small.  She has the unique ability to relate to and build the confidence of people from a myriad of backgrounds and with a wide range of personalities and mediation styles.  She is thoughtful, engaging, patient, persistent, and always well-prepared.