Susan G. Feder, Esq.

Construction Breach Of Contract

• Mediated a breach of construction contract action between the owner of the historic County Inn and the contractor who completed a $6 million renovation and construction project. The owner sought compensation for the delay in the project based on the liquidated damages clause, as well as a refund of amounts paid under contested change orders. The action was settled, and both the main case and cross-complaint for unpaid invoices were dismissed.
• Mediated a breach of construction contract matter in which the subcontractor filed an action against the general contractor for sums owed after the general terminated the contract. The contractor filed a cross-complaint for damages it claimed were incurred when it hired another sub to complete the work.
• Mediated a construction breach of contract case regarding the installation of a solar power system, in which the sub-contractor claimed damages resulting from the contractor's exercise of a Termination for Convenience Clause in the subcontract. The contractor cross-complained for breach of contract damages.

Construction Defects

• Mediated a complex CD matter involving multiple defendants litigating over a remodel project on a residence. The claims involved alleged defects with the driveway, doorways, windows, and ironwork. The plaintiff also had a PI claim associated with the case when she fell on water that had leaked from the defective doorway. This case was resolved in mediation.
• Mediated a complex commercial case involving the development of two different multi-unit real estate projects. The case included several cross-actions in which allegations of breaches of fiduciary duty, fraud, mismanagement, and breach of contract are alleged against numerous parties. Parties were emotionally and financially invested in polar opposite positions.
• Mediated a breach of construction contract action by a homeowner against a contractor, claiming unlawful overages, delays, and unacceptable work done by the contractor on a full house remodel.

Breach of Contract

• Mediated breach of contract case in which employment agency claimed damages against hospital for termination of agency relationship without due cause. The disputed claim centered on question of hospital’s ability to cancel contract at will. Case settled on day of trial.
• Mediated a case that involved allegations of elder financial abuse against a home care worker who counterclaimed for breach of an oral employment agreement as well as sexual abuse against her employer. The parties were highly emotional, and the case required special handling due to the highly personal and delicate issues involved. The relationship between the parties was complicated by the fact that it was both a professional and a personal relationship.
• Mediated a pre-litigation claim for breach of contract for services rendered as an independent contractor. Potential cross-complaint for financial mismanagement and misrepresentation.

Discrimination

• Mediated an age-discrimination employment matter involving multiple plaintiffs who were terminated as part of a periodic layoff. Issues included proper classification of employment status, as well as the underlying reasons for the terminations. The defendant alleged workers were terminated because of poor performance based on objective criteria, whereas plaintiffs claimed this was a pretext for age discrimination.
• Mediated an employment dispute filed by a former nurse against a skilled nursing facility. The employee was assaulted by a former patient and obtained workers' compensation benefits from their employer. Thereafter, a former employee sued another entity that had a consulting relationship with the employer, claiming retaliatory conduct and failure to provide a safe working environment.
• Mediated a case where a former employee brought an action for harassment, hostile work environment, and retaliation after she was laid off from employment in sales. The company claimed the layoff was related to the pandemic shutdown and denied the existence of workplace harassment.

Hostile Environment

• Mediated a case where the plaintiff brought the case for unlawful retaliatory conduct against the former employer after the plaintiff was injured on the job and pursued a worker's compensation claim. The plaintiff claimed that the employer failed to offer appropriate accommodations for his physical condition after his workplace accident and that he suffered emotional distress as well as lost past and future wages when his employment ended.

Sexual Harassment

• Mediated a high conflict case with allegations of sexual harassment, elder financial abuse, and breach of employment contract involving a home care worker and employer. Issues involved difficulty in characterizing the multi-dimensional relationship between the parties and whether labor laws applied and were breached.
• Mediated a case for sexual harassment in the workplace brought by a young employee against her direct manager. The plaintiff claimed her manager engaged in inappropriate conduct at the workplace and that she suffered emotional damages as a result. The employer claimed that the conduct was not reported timely, but that when it was, the company took appropriate action against the manager. The plaintiff voluntarily resigned from the company and was not terminated.
• Mediated sexual harassment in the workplace case. The plaintiff alleged inappropriate conduct by a co-worker, which she reported. She claimed that the resulting investigation was insufficient and that the employer's conclusion that the claimant was not credible was erroneous.
• Mediated an employment sexual harassment case in which an employee alleged that a former employer improperly investigated a harassment claim and failed to take corrective action against a fellow employee. The claimant also alleged constructive termination as the reason she ended her employment.
• Mediated an employment action by a former employee alleging sexual harassment and discrimination under the FEHA. The plaintiff claimed that a co-worker assaulted her and that the employer failed to take action to prevent abusive behavior. Negligent hiring and retention were also alleged.
• Mediated an employment/sexual harassment claim by a former employer against the CEO of a company for which they both worked. The plaintiff claimed that she was demoted and lost her job after she had a consensual relationship with her boss.
• Mediated a matter involving sexual harassment that was claimed by a former employee who resigned after long-term employment. The employer claimed that the employee/office manager had wrongfully overpaid her wages over the course of the years of employment. The claim included FEHA violations and a potential attorney’s fee award.
• Mediated a sexual harassment case claimed by a former employee who resigned after long-term employment. The employer claimed that the employee/office manager had overpaid herself wages over the course of the years of employment.

Wage and Hour

• Mediated an employment dispute in which a former employee brought an action to recover legal expenses and other costs incurred in defending a lawsuit by a third party that arose from circumstances within the course of scope of employment with the former employer.
• Mediated an employment action in which a dental hygienist sued the employer for misclassification of status, wrongful termination, and violations of wage and hour laws. The plaintiff claimed constructive termination with resulting damages.
• Mediated an employment/wage and hour dispute in which a former employee claimed that he was unable to take lunch and rest breaks as a practical matter due to the way jobs were scheduled. Issues centered on the legality of allowing breaks in name only, without a realistic means to ensure they are feasible during a busy work day.
• Meditated an employment case in which the plaintiff claimed that he was not fully and adequately paid for his work. He was a salesperson, and his income was based on commissions. He claimed that his prior employer manipulated the profit structure to pay him less than he was owed. He also claimed failure to reimburse for out-of-pocket expenses and violation of meal and rest breaks.

Wage and Hour Class Action

• Mediated a wage and hour class action brought by a representative plaintiff against a former employer for alleged labor code violations.

Wrongful Term & Discrimination

• Mediated a case by a former employee of a major healthcare facility for claims of retaliation after the employee was injured and pursued a claim under the workers’ compensation system. The employer claimed that the employee voluntarily resigned and that his injury and subsequent workers’ compensation claim were unrelated to the termination of his employment.
• Mediated a case by a former employee of a hotel hospitality company for claims of wrongful termination, discrimination, and failure to engage in the interactive process after the employee became ill and disabled from continuing in his current position. The employer asserted that the employee was never eligible to resume work and that a permanent leave is not a reasonable accommodation.
• Mediated an employment action in which the plaintiff claimed that the employer failed to accommodate him for a medical condition he deemed a disability and for wrongful termination. The dispute centered on the nature of the accommodation requested and provided and whether the employer acted appropriately.

Wrongful Termination

• Mediated an emotional workplace termination action in which the employee alleged loss of job due to prior reporting of alleged sexual harassment by the employer. Dealt with emotionally charged litigants in helping to resolve disputes.
• Mediated an employment case in which the plaintiff claimed wage and hour violations, as well as wrongful termination due to pregnancy. The plaintiff had worked for a restaurant for six months and alleged she was summarily dismissed when her employers learned she was pregnant. The plaintiff claimed damages for emotional distress as a result of the termination. The case was settled several months before trial.
• Mediated an employment case in which the plaintiff alleged wrongful termination and workplace harassment arising from a workplace injury and subsequently claimed disability.
• Mediated an employment wrongful termination case in which a former employee claimed his termination was based on age discrimination. The employer denied discriminatory conduct and alleged that termination was performance-related.
• Mediated an employment action with allegations of constructive termination and wage and hour violations brought by a former service technician for a family-run business.
• Mediated an employment wrongful termination matter in which the employee claimed that he was terminated for having exercised his right to take unpaid parental leave, whereas the employer claimed his termination was for valid business reasons.

Bad Faith

• Mediated a case where the plaintiff brought two actions to recover for property damage to her home when a car negligently drove into one of the walls. The plaintiff claimed property damage, loss of use, and other consequential damages against both the tortfeasor as well as her own homeowner's coverage.
• Mediated an insurance bad faith claim by a policyholder against carrier which partially rejected the policyholder's claim for business loss due to a burglary on the premises. The policyholder claimed that the carrier mishandled the claim and breached the covenant of good faith and fair dealing. In addition to the amount of the claim, the claimant sought attorneys' fees and punitive damages.
• Mediated a breach of contract and bad faith claim by the owner of multiple properties. The claimant alleged that the carrier wrongfully denied the first-party claim and wrongfully denied coverage of third-party claims.
• Mediated a case involving an insurer who brought an action to rescind the contract and recover amounts paid to the insured after a theft at the insured's warehouse. Rescission action was based on a claim of misrepresentation by the insured in an application for insurance. The insured brought separate action for bad faith and breach of contract, claiming that the amount paid on loss was insufficient and that the insurer’s conduct in processing the claim amounted to bad faith.
• Mediated a case involving the insurer who brought an action to rescind the contract and recover amounts paid to the insured after a theft at the insured's warehouse. Rescission action was based on a claim of misrepresentation by the insured in the insurance application. The insured brought separate action for bad faith and breach of contract, claiming that the amount paid on loss was insufficient and that the insurer's conduct in processing the claim amounted to bad faith.

Coverage

• Mediated an insurance bad faith and breach of contract action brought by an injured worker against Defendant's carrier in an underlying slip and fall case. When the carrier denied Defense and coverage to its insured, Plaintiff settled with the insured, who thereafter assigned all rights to pursue his carrier on a bad faith claim. The case centered on the interpretation of exclusionary clauses in the commercial liability policy.

Property Damage

• Mediated a real estate dispute between landlord and former commercial tenant for a claim of damage to tenant's personal property resulting from a leak in HVAC unit not contained within tenant's rented space. The owner sought affirmative relief for unpaid rental amounts under the lease agreement.

Subrogation

• Mediated a subrogation claim by the insurer for damage to the real and personal property of the insured from an alleged defective washer in the upstairs unit. Issues mediated included reasonable cost to repair, a measure of damages, and product defect.

Workers Comp Coverage Issues

• Mediated a subrogation claim against a third party for reimbursement of workers' compensation benefits paid by comp. carrier. An injured worker tripped and fell in a parking lot, sustaining an ankle injury. The workers' comp. carrier claimed the parking lot owner was negligent for failing to maintain the premises in a safe condition.

Medical

• Mediated a medical malpractice claim of mother and young child against well-known hospital for injuries arising from incorrect pharmaceutical prescription. Damage allegations included both physical injury and emotional distress claims.
• Mediated a medical malpractice case involving ankle surgery following a complicated fracture. The plaintiff alleged that the surgeon improperly repaired the tri-malleolar fracture and subsequently failed to properly read the post-operative X-ray. The plaintiff required a second surgery and claimed general damages and lost earning capacity.
• Mediated a medical malpractice/wrongful death case brought by parents against the doctor for alleged negligence in overprescribing opiates to their 28-year-old son, who died of an apparent overdose. Parents claimed that the son’s doctor breached the standard of care by failing to monitor the controlled substances he was prescribing appropriately. Plaintiff also argued that physicians should be held liable for treble damages under the statute directed at drug dealer liability.
• Mediated a medical malpractice case against a surgeon and physician’s assistant after complications following surgery to repair an ankle fracture. The plaintiff claimed the doctor’s conduct fell below the standard of care in performing surgery and in conducting follow-up care, resulting in the need for a second surgery and a longer recovery time.
• Mediated a medical malpractice case in which the plaintiff claimed that a nurse practitioner caused a severe burn to her face after administration of laser treatment. Damage allegations included claims of emotional distress, embarrassment, and concern over facial scars. The case settled several months before trial.
• Mediated a matter involving negligence alleged against the Residential Care Facility when a resident fell and broke their arm after being evacuated due to fire. The resident claimed that additional aggravating circumstances existed, which resulted in her experiencing severe cognitive decline post-incident.
• Mediated a medical malpractice/elder abuse case in which the plaintiff sustained a severe stroke while at a skilled nursing facility. Plaintiff claimed that the conduct of the facility fell below the standard of care and contributed to the poor outcome of the patient.
• Mediated a medical malpractice case based on lack of informed consent prior to administering an intramuscular gluteal injection of pain medication into a patient with gluteal implants.
• Mediated a medical malpractice case against an OB/GYN for mistaken entry in operative report that caused severe emotional distress to the patient and resulted in the need for a follow up test to counter anxiety.

Breach Of Contract

• Mediated a breach of commercial lease claim by a former business partner and lessor against a former tenant and business partner. The claim centered on the issue of whether a valid extension of the original lease agreement had been created when the business was sold by one partner to the other.
• Mediated a breach of contract for real estate management compensation brought by family members against each other.

Buy/Sell

• Mediated an action to determine the right to the commission on the sale of residential real estate. The seller disputed that the agent and broker were entitled to a commission, alleging a breach of fiduciary duties and failure to follow the seller’s instructions. Agent/brokerage company claimed it was entitled to the full commission earned on the sale of the property. Dispute settled prior to litigation being filed.
• Mediated a real estate Non-Disclosure action by the buyer of a vacant plot of land against the seller's agent. The buyer claimed that the agent failed to discover a land survey that questioned the lot lines of the land being sold, resulting in a smaller plot than represented. The buyer alleged that due to the smaller size of the lot, it was more difficult and expensive to build a house on the property.
• Mediated a real estate purchase and sale transaction in which the client claimed the agent breached fiduciary duty and made misrepresentations which led to the failure of the anticipated purchase.
• Mediated a dispute between client and agent/broker in which the client claimed that the agent did not properly handle a complicated buy/sell “domino” contingency transaction. Although the clients’ property was sold, they were unable to close escrow on the property they had hoped to purchase, resulting in claims of damage and stress.
• Mediated a family dispute in which family members sued over the amounts allegedly owed to the father after the sale of jointly owned property. Understanding and addressing cultural issues and family dynamics played a significant role in resolving the dispute.
• Mediated a case involving action for fraud in connection with the sale of a home between family members. The plaintiff claimed that the defendant fraudulently obtained the title to his home and thereafter sold it without accounting to him for the proceeds. The defendant claimed that there was no fraud, and that the sale was agreed to by the plaintiff.

Home Owners Association

• Mediated a real estate dispute by a former property owner against HOA, alleging that the defective condition of the property resulted in a diminution of value and the loss of rental income for the townhouse owner.
• Mediated an HOA dispute in which the owners of three condominium units in one building mediated various issues affecting the respective use and enjoyment of their units.
• Mediated a matter involving homeowners who needed to resolve various disputes regarding a building co-owned by them. The disputes related to improvements, claimed violations of CC&Rs, establishing a reserve account for capital improvements, and creating a template for future HOA meetings and communications.

Landlord/Tenant

• Mediated a landlord/tenant dispute in which the tenant sued for breach of warranty of habitability and retaliatory eviction. The plaintiff’s damage claim included a computation of loss of income for the daycare business on the property, as well as statutory penalties for retaliatory eviction. The plaintiff also claimed emotional distress and harassment by the landlord.
• Mediated a real estate breach of lease action by a landlord against a former tenant, in which allegations of constructive eviction and breach of implied warranty of habitability were litigated. The case also addressed the propriety of withholding of security deposit and applicable statutory penalties.
• Mediated an action by a former tenant against the owner of a property for breach of habitability and to recover rent paid for an unpermitted conversion unit. Issues related to whether the tenant misused the property, causing habitability claims, and to whether the tenant was constructively evicted, and if so, what the proper measure of damages should be.
• Mediated a landlord versus tenant dispute where the tenant claimed defects in the property.
• Mediated a landlord versus tenant dispute where the tenant claimed leaks in the roof damaged his valuable personal property.

Neighbor Dispute

• Mediated a contentious neighbor dispute involving issues of fence location and property line, invasion of privacy, nuisance, assault and battery, and property damage. Both neighbors sued one another on cross-complaints with similar allegations. Emotionally charged case settled with a template for future behavior by the parties, as well as damages for various claims.
• Meditated a neighbor dispute involving a tree, in which competing interests of restoration and privacy/enjoyment of property were mediated. Discussion and evaluation were governed by a local ordinance addressing Tree Dispute Resolution.
• Mediated a real estate matter involving claims of Prescriptive Easement or Irrevocable License to use shared roadway between neighboring vineyard properties. Parties were adjacent vineyard owners whose prior dealings had created a lack of trust between them.
• Mediated a neighbor dispute between two condo owners involving alleged nuisance by Tenant.
• Mediated a neighbor dispute involving damage to adjacent property from a burst pipe.
• Mediated a neighbor dispute involving trees and views. Adjoining property owners had mutual complaints about vegetation and structures on properties. Highly charged emotions and allegations were made by both owners. The case settled before the need for a hearing before the City authorities.
• Mediated a nuisance matter between owners of adjacent commercial properties regarding alleged failure by one property owner to adequately secure its property so as to protect against unauthorized access to the neighbor's property. Acts of vandalism occured, which were attributed by the plaintiff to lax security of the defendant.

Property Damage

• In the role of Discovery Referee, assisted the parties with pre-litigation document requests relating to the investigation of a catastrophic fire.

Real Property

• Mediated a heated dispute between the homeowner and the Homeowners' Association in Kentfield involving issues of alleged violations of CC & Rs.
• Mediated a highly emotional neighbor dispute involving fence and property line issues, responsibilities for repair, and encroachment between owners in San Francisco. The settlement allowed neighbors to repair their relationship as well as their fence
• Mediated a landslide dispute between upper and lower slope property owners when the property was damaged after heavy rains caused the upper slope to slide onto the lower property.
• Mediated a family property dispute involving issues of ownership of real and personal property, tenant’s rights and obligations, lending, and foreclosure. The emotionally charged and delicate family situation required sensitivity and careful handling by the mediator.
• Mediated an emotionally charged family dispute between mother and son regarding the division of real property assets. Parties were able to agree on a framework for resolution that helped repair the relationship as well as resolve property disputes.
• Mediated an action by the seller against the realtor for breach of fiduciary duty in dual party representation of both seller and buyer. The seller claimed the agent concealed material facts in the brokering of the sale and sought disgorgement of substantial commissions paid to the seller in the transaction.
• Mediated a real estate partition case between a former couple.
• Mediated a family dispute regarding ownership interests in real property.
• Mediated an action against realtor for failure to disclose regarding defective plot survey, resulting in property dimensions being different than represented.
• Mediated a real estate partition action brought by one joint owner against the co-owner of a property.
• Mediated a construction Breach of Contract case regarding the installation of a solar power system, in which the subcontractor claimed damages resulting from the contractor's exercise of a Termination for Convenience Clause in the subcontract. Contractor cross-complained for breach of contract damages.

Warranty of Habitability

• Mediated an action for breach of warranty of habitability with a claim of emotional distress following settlement of previous unlawful detainer action. The plaintiff tenant sought to recover rents paid, as well as treble damages and attorneys' fees under applicable code sections. The claim alleged harassment, nuisance, and rental of an illegal unit by the property owner.
• Mediated a landlord-tenant breach of warranty of habitability matter; the former tenant claimed that the premises were rodent-infested and suffered from water damage and that the landlord failed to remedy the situation. In addition to seeking recovery of past rental payments, the tenant claimed property damage, emotional distress, and attorney's fees.

Assault and Battery

• Mediated a highly contentious case between ex-spouses for damages based on allegations of battery and abuse. The parties were embroiled in conflict, with feelings of anger, mistrust, and fear affecting the negotiations. By incorporating excellent listening skills, empathy, and nuanced negotiation strategies, Sue was able to arrive at a negotiated settlement of this sensitive civil dispute.
• Action for assault and negligence arising out of a physical altercation between a patron and guard in defendant's nightclub. Plaintiff alleged continuing cognitive impairment as a result of trauma to the head and face, and claimed to have suffered a mild traumatic brain injury. Issues involved employment status of guard, vicarious liability and insurance coverage matters.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff suffered injuries when she was pushed by a developmentally disabled adult in a public venue. A claim was pursued against the parents of the adult for negligent supervision. The plaintiff claimed back surgery will be required after other less invasive measures provided minimal relief.

Catastrophic Injury

• Mediated a case involving a slip and fall on temporary outdoor stairs resulting in substantial injury to the shoulder, hand and wrist.

Civil Rights

• Mediated a civil rights violation and racial profiling alleged when the customer was mistaken for a shoplifter in a store and ushered out by police. Plaintiff claimed to have suffered humiliation and emotional distress as a result of this incident.

General Negligence

• Mediated a neighbor dispute involving failure to restrain the dog and subsequent attack and bite. The strained and difficult relationship between the neighbors fueled the dispute and presented a challenging situation for the mediator. A history of police involvement and other complaints created further animosity between the parties.
• Mediated a case involving a plaintiff who walked into a stack of lumber left on his property during a construction project and sustained a large gash to his shin area. The plaintiff claimed that the contractor was negligent in leaving lumber in a pathway on his property. The contractor claimed the plaintiff himself was negligent for not using a light or otherwise trying to ascertain where any materials had been left before walking onto the project area at night.
• Mediated a case involving a plaintiff who sustained a knee fracture when she fell while trying to separate a large dog owned by a neighbor from her small dog. The use of crutches resulted in shoulder pain, and a rotator cuff tear was diagnosed. Issues included whether the Defendant violated local leash law, resulting in negligence per se.
• Mediated a dog bite case in which gardener was attacked by employer's pit bull mix who was inadvertently left loose in the yard. The plaintiff claimed significant emotional distress damages and PTSD related to the attack.
• Mediated a case involving plaintiff homeowners who claimed injuries after a refrigerator that was installed in their garage toppled over onto them when they opened the door. Injuries involved ankle fractures and knee and back pain.

Personal Injury

• Mediated a slip and fall in a grocery store in which the plaintiff alleged that fruit debris was responsible for an elderly customer's fall. The plaintiff alleged that their advertised store layout required a higher level of cleaning and diligence to prevent falls.
• Mediated a personal injury action for traumatic amputation of a finger by horse bite. The plaintiff alleged that both the horse owner and ranch were negligent and/or strictly liable when the horse bit off the end of the plaintiff's finger while under the defendant's care and control. Issues included evaluation of whether the owner knew or should have known that the horse exhibited dangerous propensities.
• Mediated a premises liability case regarding stairs in a residential apartment complex. The plaintiff claimed that the stairs were defective and dangerous, causing her to fall and sustain injury. Defendant claimed they were not negligent since stairs were built to the code present at the time and that they acted reasonably in arranging for repairs to this apartment complex which had been recently purchased by them.
• Mediated a trip and fall on an alleged defect in the sidewalk in front of a business property. Plaintiff sustained damage to foot and ankle, including fractures. Defense claimed comparative fault, pre-existing condition and failure to mitigate damages. Case settled two months before trial.
• Mediated a trip and fall on a curb adjacent to the handicapped ramp in the parking lot. Plaintiff sustained knee injuries for which surgery was necessary. Significant issues of comparative fault and possible Code violations existed.
• Mediated a trip and fall on a darkened stairway with no handrail while attending a work-sponsored event off-siteThe plaintiffff sustained serious injuries to shoulder and hip, requiring surgery. Plaintiff continues to suffer pain and residual problems. Plaintiff's injuries were covered by workers' compensation, so the issue of dealing with and closing the workers' comp case was also mediated.
• Mediated a trip and fall case in which plaintiff, now deceased, fell on an unsecured mat on business premises. Because the plaintiff died of unrelated causes, the case is a survival action for economic damages only.
• Mediated a slip and fall at plaintiff's place of business with no workers' compensation insurance. Plaintiff sued the property owner for failure to maintain the premises in a reasonable condition. Plaintiff sustained fractures to ankle with complications during recovery.
• Mediated a matter where the plaintiff slipped and fell on water on a basketball court and sustained a knee injury resulting in surgery. The owner of the facility cross-complained against a roofing company, claiming that any water on the court floor was the result of poor roofing construction.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff realtor fell on stairs while touring an unfinished unit in the defendant's real estate development. There was no lighting in the unit at the time of the tour, and the plaintiff was invited to view the home by the defendant's sales agent.
• Mediated a trip and fall on city property wherein the plaintiff fell on a missing tile on a city street, sustaining a fracture to her ankle that did not require surgery.
• Mediated a case involving a plaintiff/minor who sustained burns when the top became dislodged from a traveler’s mug, which spilled hot tea on him after erroneously being filled with very hot water by the defendant's coffee shop.
• Mediated a case involving a slip and fall on water near a refrigerated case in the grocery store. The plaintiff claimed injuries to her knee and back as a result and contended that any pre-exisitng conditions were aggravated by the fall. A cross complaint was filed against the refrigeration maintenance vendor for contributing to the water leak.
• Mediated a case involving a trip and fall in a parking lot, resulting in injuries to wrists, elbows, neck and back. The plaintiff was at work and received workers' compensation benefits for injuries with attendant lien to be satisfied.

PI Auto

• Mediated an auto accident case in which injuries were difficult to quantify due to the plaintiff's unique susceptibilities.
• Mediated a UIM claim against the plaintiff's insurance carrier for injuries sustained in a high-speed freeway rear-end accident case.
• Mediated a high-speed highway collision occurred when the plaintiff's car crashed into the defendant's disabled car, which was partially blocking the plaintiff's lane of travel. Defendant had tried to avoid an earlier collision, and in executing an evasive maneuver, had ended up in the center divider at midnight. Primary issue under discussion was extent of liability of each party, and how to apportion comparative fault. Important facts included range of visibility; highway conditions and visual perception.
• Mediated a motorcycle accident case in which motorcyclist was hit by motorist while lane splitting on Golden Gate Bridge. Issues of comparative fault and extent of injury were raised by motorists and resolved.
• Mediated a motorcycle vs. auto case in which plaintiff claimed that injuries to his hand effectively ended his career as a musician. Damage computation was hotly contested as speculative, and plaintiff claimed to have suffered severe emotional trauma.
• Mediated an auto accident case in which plaintiff collided with defendant’s disabled vehicle that was stopped in center divider of the highway. Disputed liability focused on whether plaintiff should have seen stalled car and avoided impact.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff was a semi-professional golfer and instructor who claimed that her shoulder injury and resulting surgery drastically affected her ability to pursue her chosen career. Negotiations included a discussion of how to evaluate the loss of a prospective business opportunity and how to compensate the plaintiff for the loss of her dreams.
• Mediated a UIM claim involving auto accident where four plaintiffs were hit by a drunk driver. The case was noteworthy because of the previously stipulated judgment entered into between the claimants and the defendant driver that included punitive damage payments. The question arose as to proper amount of credit to be applied against UIM policy.
• Mediated an automobile accident case in which plaintiff sought damages for post-concussive syndrome and the related transformed migraine syndrome. The defendant disputed the causation of these damages, as well as alleged dental injuries resulting from the accident. Issues included discussion of mechanism of injury and diagnosis of concussion without external trauma.
• Mediated a claim of mild traumatic brain injury sustained as a result of a fall in a wheelchair while the plaintiff was being transported in a specially equipped transit van. The claimant alleged that the van driver improperly secured the wheelchair, allowing it to flip backward on a sharp turn. Claimed injuries include mild cognitive impairment and, PTSD, and recurring headaches.
• Mediated an auto accident in which plaintiff sought damages for mild traumatic brain injury and post-concussive symptoms. The discussion focused on whether the plaintiff could recover from somatic symptom disorder where evidence of organic brain injury was slight.
• Mediated an auto accident on a freeway in which the plaintiff's car was clipped, causing it to hit the median divider and come to rest facing on-coming traffic at high speed. A significant portion of the damage claim was for emotional trauma and fear of being left in such a vulnerable and dangerous situation.
• Mediated an uninsured first-party motorist claim in which the claimant alleged TBI and post-concussive syndrome after being hit by a drunk driver. The insuranceance carrier disputed that the claimant sustained TBI and claimed any residual issues were due to prior, documented major depression and anxiety.
• Mediated an auto accident case involving two elderly drivers in an intersection. Issues included general health effects of an accident on a person of advanced age and relative reliability of recollection of facts of the incident when apportioning fault.
• Mediated a matter involving an elderly plaintiff who was injured in an auto accident and developed Thoracic Outlet Syndrome thereafter. Plaintiff claimed that quality of life was affected and that certain accommodations to lifestyle needed to be made.
• Mediated a rear-end auto accident in which the plaintiff claims to have sustained knee and neck injuries as well as a traumatic brain injury. The defendant challenged the causation of most injuries and relied on the car's "Event Data Recorder" for evidence of the severity of the crash.
• Mediated a motorcycle accident in which plaintiff suffered a rib fracture after being hit by defendant in the center left-turn lane. The issue centered on who had the legal right of way.
• Mediated an uninsured motorist claim in which two claimants sustained back and neck injuries after being rear-ended. Carrier defended by pointing out a large time gap in treatment. Issues also included discussion of causation and pre-existing conditions.
• Mediated a three rear-end accident on the freeway where an unnamed motorist stopped on the freeway to change a tire. The plaintiff was able to stop behind the disabled motorist but was hit from behind by the first car, which in turn was rear-ended by the second car and was pushed into the plaintiff for a second impact. Liability discussion dealt with a percentage of fault to be attributed to each motorist involved.
• Mediated an auto accident in which defendant ran a stop sign and hit plaintiff who was traveling on a state highway. The plaintiff's injuries included a torn rotator cuff and ankle fracture.
• Mediated a multi-vehicle high-speed accident in which five people were seriously injured. Issues centered on whether the driver was within the course and scope of his employment at the time of the accident. Also involved substantial insurance coverage issues centering on permissive driver status and non-listed vehicle exclusion.
• Mediated a big rig and auto collision in an intersection with a disputed fact pattern. Liability and degree of possible comparative fault were at issue, as well as the reasonableness of treatment and cost.
• Mediated a multi-truck accident in which plaintiff claimed he sustained an injury to his cervical spine, resulting in eventual fusion surgery. Causation disputed by defense, as well as the need for potential future surgeries.
• Mediated an underinsured motorist claim in which the claimant alleged continuing post-concussive symptoms and somatic symptom disorder.
• Mediated an auto accident in which plaintiffs were passengers in a car driven by a minor who was intoxicated while driving. All passengers had attended a party at which alcohol was served. Issues included the liability of the homeowner for furnishing alcohol to minors, as well as the liability of the intoxicated driver.
• Mediated a rear-end accident in which the plaintiff sustained neck and back injuries, as well as claimed fracture to her foot and toe. The disputed issue centered around whether foot/toe injury was causally related to the accident.
• Mediated an auto accident in which the plaintiff claimed aggravation of pre-existing conditions when she was a passenger in a vehicle involved in a rear-end accident. The defendant denies liability and asserts that the accident was caused by an unsafe lane change made by the driver of the vehicle in which the plaintiff was a passenger.
• Mediated a rear-end auto accident in which the plaintiff sustained an injury to the lower back and hip. The complicated wage loss component centered on the difficulty in assessing lost business opportunities and business development claims.
• Mediated an auto accident caused by excessive speed in hazardous roadway conditions. The plaintiff claimed to have sustained numerous injuries resulting in several surgeries. The defendant claimed that conditions leading to surgeries were pre-existing and that the accident, at most, resulted in a temporary exacerbation.
• Mediated a case involving a pedestrian/mail carrier hit by a car in a crosswalk while on the job. Plaintiff sustained injuries to both knees as well as neck, back, and shoulder. The plaintiff received workers' comp benefits and brought an action against the driver who hit her for damages.
• Mediated an underinsured motorist claim where the claimant was a rear-seat passenger involving hip replacement surgery.
• Mediated an underinsured motorist claim in which the claimant was a driver for a rideshare company and sustained back injuries requiring multi-level surgeries.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff was the passenger in a rideshare vehicle and sustained surgical neck injuries when the driver failed to yield at a stop sign, resulting in a collision with another car in the intersection.
• Mediated an auto accident dispute in which the defendant ran a red light at an intersection and caused serious injuries to the plaintiff, who was attempting a legal left turn. Injuries were both physical and mental, with diagnoses of stress disorders and anxiety.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff was a passenger in a taxi when he was hit by a drunk driver going the wrong way on a one-way street. The plaintiff's medical history was complicated, making a determination of direct causation of injury difficult.
• Mediated a case involving a motorcyclist who was injured when a driver made a left turn into him and clipped his bike. Injuries included foot and ankle wounds that had difficulty healing and required frequent and painful debridement procedures to promote healing.
• Mediated a matter involving a plaintiff motorcycle driver who claimed neck and back injury after the defendant's auto driver pushed over his motorcycle. The parties had previously engaged in aggressive driving behaviors, and both claimed that the other acted out of "road rage". The defendant claimed that most of the plaintiff's injuries were not causally related to the accident.
• Mediated a matter involving an elderly plaintiff who was a pedestrian in the crosswalk when he was struck by the defendant in a rental car. Injuries included a concussion, TBI, and vertebral fractures.
• Mediated a multi-car rear-end accident on the highway, resulting in neck and back injuries to the plaintiff. The plaintiff claimed residual symptoms and a nerve release surgery relating to the accident.
• Mediated a matter where the plaintiff sustained injuries to his elbow, neck, and back when his truck collided with the defendant while she was attempting to make a U-turn and failed to see the plaintiff's truck.
• Mediated a motorcycle vs. vehicle accident in which the plaintiff/cyclist sustained a wrist fracture when the car collided with his motorcycle. The plaintiff made a good recovery but may be at an increased risk of arthritis in the future.
• Mediated an underinsured motorist claim in which the insured was injured as a pedestrian who a third party hit in a marked crosswalk. Injuries included rotator cuff tear and dental injury.
• Mediated a matter where the plaintiff sustained multiple fractures to bones in her dominant hand when her airbags deployed after the defendant's truck hit the plaintiff's car in a controlled intersection.
• Mediated a matter involving a drunk driver who ran through a stop sign and broadsided one vehicle with two passengers, pushing it into a third vehicle that was consequently pushed into a bank of trees. Three injured parties sought division of policy limits from the defendant driver, now deceased.
• Mediated a matter involving a plaintiff who sustained a shoulder injury as a result of a car accident in which the driver was operating in the course and scope of his employment. The plaintiff had multiple prior injuries, including a prior surgery to the same shoulder nine months before the accident.
• Mediated a rear-end accident resulting in neck, back, and shoulder injuries. The dispute centered on future medical specials and assessment of general damage.
• Mediated a rear-end accident in which the plaintiff sustained an injury to her back. Damages were disputed in that the plaintiff claimed a compression fracture was causally related to the accident, whereas the defendant believed there was not.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff was rear-ended after his car ran out of gas on a major bridge, leaving him vulnerable to being hit. The plaintiff's injuries were disputed by the defendant, and the issue of comparative fault was considered in the case valuation.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff was hit by a drunk driver while in his car with his two children. The plaintiff claims significant psychological injury as a result, including PTSD and Panic Disorder.
• Mediated a case involving an auto accident in which the defendant collided with the plaintiff when making a left turn into the plaintiff's oncoming car. The plaintiff injured their shoulder, neck and back, and the defendant claimed that prior injuries to same areas substantially contributed to the plaintiff's condition. The case involved discussion of worker's compensation lien and psychological consequences to the plaintiff from the accident.
• Mediated a case involving a T-Bone auto accident in which the side air bags deployed, causing injury to an elderly plaintiff who was stopped at a red light.
• Mediated an UIM pre-arbitration case in which the claimant claims aggravation of pre-existing conditions in the lower back and knee as a result of an accident in which the underinsured driver ran a stop sign.
• Mediated a case involving a plaintiff who sustained an injury to the lower back when his car was rear-ended by a commercial van after traffic abruptly stopped at a freeway exit.
• Mediated a case involving a rear-end auto accident in which the plaintiff sustained an injury to her back, exacerbating a prior condition that had been asyomptomatic for several years.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff was injured when the driver of a specialized van, in which he was being driven to non-emergency medical appointments, failed to properly secure the plaintiff's wheelchair inside the van. The plaintiff claimed a leg fracture from the incident, which led to additional complications due to his poor health and he died almost a year later.
• Mediated a case involving a side swipe accident between a school bus and a passenger vehicle resulting in claimed neck and back injuries to the driver of the car.
• Mediated an auto accident case in which the plaintiff claimed to have hit her head on the car door, which was damaged by a side swipe collision, claiming TBI and orthopedic injuries.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff sustained a shoulder injury as a result of a car accident, in which the driver was operating in the course of scope of his employment. The plaintiff had multiple   prior injuries, including a prior surgery to the same shoulder.
• Mediated a minor rear-end car accident in which the plaintiff sustained neck and shoulder injuries that caused a rare and permanent condition of Cervical Dystonia to develop, requiring a lifetime of future care and management.
• Mediated a case where a drunk driver ran through a stop sign and broadsided one vehicle with two passengers, pushing it into a third vehicle that was consequently pushed into a bank of trees. Three injured parties sought division of policy limits in place for the defendant driver, now deceased.
• Mediated a case involving a multi-party accident resulting in a wrongful death claim by three dependents and an injury claim by a fourth claimant. The case also involved the resolution of Workers' Comp. Benefits' Lien and future payments.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff was rear-ended on the highway and suffered neck injuries resulting in cervical fusion surgery. The plaintiff had a pre-existing disc disease, but claimed that the accident made his neck symptomatic.
• Mediated a case involving a multi-party auto accident in which four passengers all sustained varying degrees of injury. The need for future surgery by one passenger was considered and addressed.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff sustained multiple fractures to bones in her dominant hand when her air bags deployed after the defendant's truck hit the plaintiff's car in a controlled intersection.
• Mediated a UIM claim in which the insured was injured as a pedestrian who was hit by a third party in a marked crosswalk. The injuries included a rotator cuff tear and a dental injury.

PI Bicycle

• Mediated a bicyclist accident case in which a an elderly motorist hit cyclist. The plaintiff claimed significant damages for alternative therapies used to treat cyclist injuries.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff claimed traumatic brain injury resulting from a concussion sustained when the plaintiff was hit by a bicycle while both parties were using a shared bicycle/pedestrian path. Plaintiff also sustained orthopedic injuries from the collision with the bike ridden by a minor. The challenge in this case was in determining whether the plaintiff suffered from continuing cognitive impairment and, if so, whether a brain injury or other factors caused it.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff fell from her bicycle when her tire became stuck in a railroad track near a bike lane. She suffered several fractures to her shoulder, requiring two surgeries. The suit was against the public entity for the dangerous condition of public property. Cross complaints were filed against the railroad companies for indemnity.
• Mediated a case where a pedestrian collided with a bicyclist on multi use path, when the bicyclist passed the pedestrian on the left. The pedestrian fell to the ground and sustained a head injury with a diagnosis of a mild TBI. After rehab and therapy, the plaintiff was able to return to work as a fitness instructor.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff sustained an elbow fracture when he fell from his e-Bike after coming into contact with a hedge and an illegally placed sign on the defendant's property. The plaintiff claims there were lingering issues to his arm as a result.

PI Sexual Assault

• Mediated a case where the plaintiff brought a suit against a public school district for negligence and failure to supervise based on sexual abuse charges against a former coach at the school. The plaintiff claimed that the district had notice of the inappropriate conduct engaged in by their employee and failed to investigate or take any action to prevent it.

Premises Liability

• Mediated a premises liability case involving unsafe access to a public beach area by a bar/restaurant where a patron sustained a knee injury on broken glass.
• Mediated a premises liability case by an elderly resident of an assisted living facility for injuries sustained when the sliding door closed on her walker, causing her to fall and suffer arm fractures. Issues addressed included how to evaluate a claim of change in the quality of life for the elderly, accompanied by loss of sense of independence.
• Mediated a case involving a 69-year-old teacher who tripped and fell on a crack in the pavement adjacent to a curb jointly owned and maintained by the City and a private party. The plaintiff suffered a broken nose with residual scarring. Issues addressed included notice, failure to remedy a defective condition, comparative fault, and nature and extent of damages. Case settled in post-mediation follow-up.
• Mediated a premises liability case brought by a 97-year-old resident of the assisted living facility for injuries claimed when an automatic door malfunctioned and closed on her, causing her to fall. The plaintiff claimed that her injuries caused a dramatic decline in her quality of life. The analysis involved the evaluation of a life care plan for a person of advanced age.
• Mediated a premises liability case for trip and fall on crack in sidewalk owned by the city and maintained by a local business. The plaintiff claimed that injuries to her face and eye resulted in permanent disfigurement requiring plastic surgery.
• Mediated a premises liability action by the emotionally fragile commercial tenant against the property owner and maintenance company for slip and fall. Damage allegations included the onset of somatic system disorders that the plaintiff claimed severely impacted her life and ability to work creatively and productively.
• Mediated a highly emotional premises liability case brought by a building tenant who slipped and fell on a recently waxed floor in her place of business. The plaintiff’s particular emotional and physical status resulted in high damage claims and made the settlement challenging.
• Mediated a case alleging civil assault and battery arising out of an altercation in the defendant's home. The plaintiff was extremely emotional and upset, making it very difficult to discuss her claim. After a nine-hour session, the plaintiff felt heard, and both parties were satisfied with the result.
• Mediated a matter where the plaintiff injured her ankle when she fell on a sidewalk near her work and claimed to have tripped on a dangerous crack in the concrete caused by a tree root. The lawsuit sought damages from both the City and the adjacent property owner, with both sides filing cross-complaints for indemnity. Interesting questions posed by this case were: ownership of and responsibility for maintenance of the trees and sidewalk; proof of the location and mechanism of the plaintiff's fall; and nature and extent of residual complaints. The case was settled three months before trial.
• Mediated a trip and fall matter on the business property when the plaintiff was led through the landscaped area by the salesperson. The elderly plaintiff fell, incurring dental and facial injuries. Case evaluation included a discussion of the impact of injury on the emotional well-being of an elderly person.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff tripped on a crack in the City sidewalk, which resulted in a broken bone in her foot. Issues presented included comparative fault on the plaintiff, apportionment of fault, and equitable indemnity between a property owner and City.
• Mediated a slip and fall on the water on a basketball court resulting from a leak in the roof. The property owner claimed comparative fault against the plaintiff, who removed the caution sign and should have known of the leak. The defendant also claimed that a subsequent re-injury was unrelated to the original incident and was not the defendant's responsibility.
• Mediated a premises liability case in which the claimant sustained injuries to his hand from a broken ceramic planter on the defendant's property. The injury required surgical repair to a severed tendon to restore full function to the claimant's hand.
• Mediated a premises liability case in which the plaintiff fell in the store after the toe of a shoe caught on an item protruding from the shelf. Plaintiff fractured bones in foot and claimed to have developed arthritis as a result.
• Mediated a matter where the plaintiff was involved in an altercation with a store employee in which he was assaulted after first pushing the employee. Plaintiff claimed to have sustained back injuries, which impacted his ability to work for over a year.
• Mediated a premises liability case in which an item fell on the plaintiff/customer's head while shopping. The plaintiff alleged that he sustained a traumatic brain injury and continues to suffer from debilitating symptoms.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff sustained a serious cut to his dominant hand when he came into contact with a sharp, exposed edge in the defendant's store. The injury caused nerve damage to the plaintiff, who worked as a carpenter.
• Mediated a dispute where the plaintiff sustained an injury to her foot and toe when a heavy piece of wood fell from a display in the defendant's store onto her foot. The plaintiff claimed nerve damage with residual discomfort.
• Mediated a premises liability case in which the plaintiff claims to have fallen on an unusually slippery floor in the defendant's store. The plaintiff alleges a concussion, as well as aggravation of pre-existing spinal injuries.
• Mediated a premises liability matter in which an unsecured open umbrella at a restaurant fell onto the plaintiff, resulting in injury to her hand, wrist, and neck. The plaintiff worked as a massage therapist and claimed that the injury permanently prevented her from working in her chosen profession.
• Mediated a premises liability case in which plaintiff fell in defendant's store and sustained multiple lacerations to several parts of his body.
• Mediated an injury matter the plaintiff sustained while shopping; she tripped and fell on a low display while looking at overhead lighting displayed for purchase at the store. Injuries included a dislocated shoulder and eventual surgical repair with problematic recovery.
• Mediated a matter where the plaintiff claimed injuries to her neck and back when she was bumped by a forklift while shopping in the defendant's store. The defendant alleged that treatment was minimal and that the extent of claimed injuries was exaggerated.
• Mediated a trip and fall matter on metal in the parking lot of a retail store. The plaintiff claimed aggravation of pre-existing neck and back conditions.
• Mediated a case where a pipe fell on a customer's head while shopping in a retail store, resulting in a concussion and consequential damages.
• Mediated a case involving a trip and fall on an electrical cord placed over the sidewalk in front of a restaurant. Local ordinances were violated by using non-ADA-compliant cord covers and failing to provide sufficient space on the sidewalk adjacent to the city-permitted parklet for outdoor dining.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff claimed that he slipped on fluid while pumping gas at the defendant's station. The plaintiff broke a hip as a result of the fall, requiring replacement surgery. Liability was disputed, as was the cause of the fall.
• Mediated a premises liability matter in which the plaintiff claims hip, back and neck injury when a large sign was knocked over by excessive wind and hit her while she was exiting the facility.
• Mediated a premises liability case in which the plaintiff sustained a significant hand injury resulting from a laceration to his dominant hand by a falling piece of sheet metal.
• Mediated a premises liability/general negligence action in which the plaintiff sustained a neck injury when a box was dropped from the second floor and struck the plaintiff in the head.
• Mediated a case involving a plaintiff who sustained a torn meniscus when he slipped and fell while delivering materials to a warehouse receiving area. The plaintif claimed the defendant maintained its premises in a manner that was unsafe to outside vendors.
• Mediated a case where a plaintiff tripped and fell on a dangerous condition in a planter surrounding a tree on the sidewalk abutting commercial property. The plaintiff sustained a serious fracture as a result.
• Mediated a case where a minor plainntiff sustained burns when a hot tea spilled out of a travel cup provided by the minor's mother which was supposed to have been filled with lower temperature water. The issues raised were of comparative fault on the part of the mother, as well as extent of emotional distress damages.

Product Liability

• Mediated a product defect case alleging disfigurement when defendant’s defective chair injured plaintiff’s finger. The plaintiff alleged that embarrassment about her appearance caused her to abandon a desired career choice.
• Mediated a case where a plaintiff sustained burns to her dominant hand from scalding hot water purchased at a cafe. Plaintiff claimed that the burns resulted in permanent damage to her ligaments and nerves and that this damage was particularly significant because of her profession as a pianist and music professor.
• Mediated a subrogation action in which the carrier sought reimbursement on behalf of its insured for loss sustained when a tankless hot water filtration system failed at home, resulting in extensive damage to property and contents. The dispute included the product manufacturer, distributor, and installer of the product.
• Mediated a product liability case in which a batch of mislabeled drugs was recalled, and the plaintiff discovered he had been taking the wrong drug for three months. The plaintiff claims he had a known allergy to the substance that was erroneously provided to him and that he has suffered from multiple adverse reactions for several years.

Workers Compensation

• Mediated a workplace accident case in which a window washer sustained serious injuries after a fall. The plaintiff alleged the employer’s failure to observe required safety regulations. Addressed issues of independent contractor relationships and licensure requirements.
• Mediated an employment-related injury wherein the employer did not maintain workers' compensation insurance. Issues related to whether the employee was working within the course and scope of his employment when the knee injury occurred. Defendant contested liability, claiming that the employee was not authorized to be working at the particular site where the incident happened
• Mediated a matter where the plaintiff suffered injuries to his cervical spine when an inattentive driver rear-ended him. Plaintiff was in the course and scope of his work when he was hit and went through the Workers' Compensation system to obtain medical treatment and disability payments.
• Mediated a case where the plaintiff was hit by a dolly stacked with heavy crates when the delivery employee failed to see her in a crowded hallway. The case was complicated by a workers' comp lien that also needed to be resolved.

Wrongful Death

• Mediated a medical malpractice case filed by the parents of a 30-year-old son for his wrongful death from an overdose of prescription drugs. Parents filed suit against the primary care physician, alleging negligence for inappropriately overprescribing addictive narcotics and painkillers. Plaintiffs also pursued a novel claim for violation of the Drug Dealer Liability Act by a physician.
• Mediated an action for the wrongful death of a 98-year-old after being injured by a garbage truck that backed into a decedent while riding a motorized scooter. The case is notable in that there were six plaintiffs, including the surviving spouse and five adult children. Also, there was difficulty in assessing the life expectancy of someone of the decedent's advanced age, as well as attributing comparative fault to the decedent.
• Mediated a wrongful death action brought by a longtime partner of a decedent, who died after being struck by a truck while on her bicycle. The dispute centered on the issue of whether the plaintiff had standing to sue under California statute limiting standing to legal spouses. The plaintiff claimed that the relationship satisfied the requirements for a valid marriage under the common law of another state in which the couple had previously resided. The case was settled after mediation and evaluation of these claims.
• Mediated a wrongful death case in which a woman was killed when a delivery truck ran over her in a crosswalk. The plaintiffs were three adult children of the decedent.
• Mediated an action for wrongful death brought by parents and child of a couple killed in a head-on highway collision. Issues included possible comparative fault of the deceased driver, as well as valuation of damages.
• Mediated a wrongful death matter brought by minor children for the death of their father who was run over by a delivery truck while sleeping on the loading dock of a local business. The decedent was homeless and suffering from mental illness, and the extent of his relationship with his children was in question during the mediation.
• Mediated the wrongful death of husband and father, who was killed in a major motor vehicle collision. The case also involved back and shoulder injuries to the driver of another vehicle. The resolution also included workers' compensation death benefits lien and execution of a compromise and release for future benefits by some of the parties.
• Mediated a product defect and negligence claim against a hospital and manufacturers of a durable medical device that failed when in use by an elderly patient, resulting in a fall and broken hip. Surgery to repair the fracture ultimately led to the claimant's death, prompting a suit by three adult children.
• Mediated a wrongful death action case in which the defendant's car went over a steep cliff that was unprotected by any barrier. The plaintiff is the defendant's mother, and the case involved claims against the city, the developer of a large project, a general contractor, and an engineer.
• Mediated a wrongful death action filed by the decedents' minor children after their father was killed by a delivery truck when he was sleeping in the loading dock of a business while under the influence of drugs.