Gretchen Wellman Taylor

"My mediation style is informal and creative, and I take my cue from the parties and sometimes the attorneys.  I find that every set of clients and their attorneys has needs and expectations that must be heard and addressed at the outset of my engagement.  I try to 'tune in' at the beginning of each matter in order to speak to each case's context and diverse interests, including what may be driving the dispute. I find attorneys often have valuable insights that set the stage for my success with their clients and with them.  In that sense I always see attorneys in mediation as part of the solution and not part of the problem (which can be a different situation in litigated cases).  They know their clients far better than I, they know the history of the matter, and most times they can be quite supportive of resolution:  Indeed, it is often the attorneys who have suggested the Mediation process, and I always remain appreciative of that fact.

I have many years of Family Law experience, almost 20 as a Divorce attorney in Beverly Hills and 12 as a Family Law bench officer.  I am a Certified Family Law Specialist.  This gives me a unique blend of skills and insights.  My training has given me the ability to be directive when that is what is appropriate, but I adjust my style according to the needs of the most important folks in the room - those whose dispute it is I am helping to unwind.  I think of mediation as a lovely dance, which I help to choreograph.  I tend to become more directive when faced with impasse.  Most clients and their attorneys seem grateful for that."