Richard LiPuma is a mediator and arbitrator holding the following certificates:

Mediators Without Borders, Certified Mediator, 2011;
Mediators Without Borders, Core Mediation and ADR Certificate, 2011
Mediators Without Borders, 60-hour Mediation & ADR Internship, October 2011.

Our philosophy is to resolve disputes effectively and efficiently. We are committed to neutrality and a fair process in both Mediation (negotiated settlement) and Arbitration (a private judge renders a decision.) Mr. LiPuma mediates and arbitrates most types of litigation, business, real estate, and divorce matters, and has a strong record of success in achieving negotiated settlements.

Mediation involves a confidential negotiation of the disputed matters. Mediation allows maximum control with minimal cost utilizing a professional negotiator who assists disputing parties to find mutually satisfactory solutions to their differences. Approximately 95% of all cases filed in court are resolved prior to trial. When agreement is reached, a Memorandum of Understanding is executed and is enforceable in court.

Mediation-Arbitration is a form of dispute resolution that combines the self-determination of mediation with the finality of arbitration. In the initial stage of a Mediation-Arbitration proceeding, the parties attempt to reach a voluntary settlement through negotiation that is facilitated by a single, neutral facilitator. If settlement is not reached, the parties may elect to engage in a full and fair hearing by the same Mediation-Arbitrator. After considering the evidence and testimony presented, the Mediation-Arbitrator renders a simple written decision which is binding on the parties.

Arbitration is a confidential binding decision by a private judge after presentation of evidence and legal arguments. Arbitration is less formal than court proceedings, and usually provides resolution of disputed matters more quickly and less expensively than having a court hearing.