First, we practice on both the defense and plaintiff sides. This gives us a personal appreciation for the needs of both sides of a case.

Second, we try a lot of cases in Oregon courts, which gives us a good idea of what juries are awarding for cases that may be similar to cases on which we serve as arbitrators or mediators. Neither party benefits, especially in non-binding arbitrations, if an arbitration award is far above or far below what a jury would award for the case. In mediations, we could often tell litigants what has happened in similar cases that we've tried; it could have a profound affect to be able to show the parties an actual verdict form a similar case we've taken through trial.

Third, we strive to make the process as simple and as pleasant as possible. Our offices can accomodate most mediations or arbitrations. We send out detailed arbitration decisions within a few days of most hearings.