Print
Back

MAP Background Information provided

277==Name: Melissa R. Karlsten
Address: Aaron, Riechert, Carpol & Riffle, APC
  333 Twin Dolphin Drive, Suite 350
  Redwood City, CA 94065
Telephone:(650) 368-4662Fax:(650) 367-8531      
Email: karlsten@arcr.com
Website: www.arcr.com
Fees: $450 per hour
Other Costs:  
BAR Number:0220976
Subject Matter:
  • Probate: Conservatorships, Guardianships & Elder Law
  • Probate: Estates & Trusts
Mediation
Experience:

 		Have attended numerous mediations in the last 17 years of practice, including as a client advocate and guardian ad litem.
Mediation
Training:

 		Obtained 40 hour certificate from Steven Rosenberg Mediation Training
Mediation
Approach:

 		 I believe that I have two qualities that make me particularly effective as a mediator: empathy and critical thinking skills. It is extremely important to build a rapport with the parties (and their counsel). Having empathy for people in a difficult situation, no matter their role, is the surest way to build trust. During a mediation you are asking people to do something that they may not want to do. If the parties do not trust you, they are less likely to respond positively to offers you present. If the parties believe that the mediator empathizes with them, they are more likely to resolve a case. During a mediation, I allow the parties to tell me their side of things and how they see the case resolving. Without agreeing with them, I communicate that I understand where they are coming from and what a benefit a settlement will provide.
In addition, I am a critical thinker and problem solver. This is important and, with the help of counsel, I am often able to come up with creative solutions to resolve a case, including terms that a court may not be able to order even after a trial on the merits.
Neutral
Approach:

 		 .
Other
Information:

 		 One of the reasons I became a lawyer is to help people solve problems, gain closure, and move on with their lives. Mediation, and being a neutral, is one of the most effective ways to accomplish these goals. I enjoy working with different personalities and I think that being on the ADR panel will allow me to provide an important service to those in need.
Brief
Thumbnail:

 Bio can be found at https://www.arcr.com/attorneys-staff/melissa-r-karlsten/
Back