Meet your Mediator: Nicole "Niki" Martell

As an accomplished civil litigation attorney, I understand the impact a strong, knowledgeable mediator can have on achieving a favorable, cost effective resolution for clients. I’m a skilled litigator, having handled a variety of complex civil and criminal cases from inception through pre-suit, motion practice and trial. After recognizing the value my experience can provide in assisting parties in effectively negotiating and resolving their cases through mediation, I decided to expand my practice. I apply my experience as a practicing litigator to quickly evaluate the issues presented by the parties, ask questions, and provide perspective to the parties, so they can assess the strengths and weaknesses of their case. In my practice, I focus on healthcare, medical malpractice, employment and complex business matters and can confidently and seamlessly mediate similar matters to reach a successful resolution.

More than just repeating offers back and forth between the parties, I show up to mediation prepared and ready to make clients feel heard, while also asking questions to assist each side in narrowing the issues and bringing them closer to a favorable resolution. Prior to mediation, I review court filings, summaries and documents provided by the parties, and review any relevant updated case law. In his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change, Stephen R. Covey wrote, “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” I put this wisdom into practice, so I can carefully address each side’s concerns, cut through the “noise” of the emotions and history that each side often brings to the table and facilitate creative, practical solutions to issues that may initially seem like impediments to a settlement.

Litigation can be costly, stressful and is limited in the relief that a client can achieve. Not to mention, the outcome and timeline is largely out of the client’s control, making trials and dragged out litigation unpredictable and costly. Mediation provides a cost effective resolution that can offer clients the confidence of a resolution through pre-trial settlement, while also affording the parties the ability to craft solutions that get clients closer to what they truly want out of litigation - not just what the law provides for. As a mediator, I encourage the parties to embrace this level of control and use it to their advantage during the mediation process. Clients end up happier as a result.

As your mediator, I will be prepared, I will listen carefully, I will value your and your client’s time and I will work effortlessly and seamlessly to provide an experience that gives your clients confidence in the outcome. I will use my experience to create an environment for the greatest chance of settlement and effective negotiations.

Do you have a case for mediation? Schedule a consultation today. I look forward to working alongside you.