Congrats to a Member of Our San Francisco Commercial Attorney Team
At our firm, we believe that effective legal advocacy goes beyond litigation. In many cases, the most successful outcomes arise from thoughtful negotiation, clear communication, and structured dispute resolution. That is why we are proud to share that our partner, Mark D. Poniatowski, has recently completed advanced mediation training through the University of California, Davis Division of Continuing and Professional Education.
Mark successfully completed the university’s 40-Hour Mediation and Conflict Resolution Certification Program, an intensive course designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in dispute resolution. The program exceeds the requirements established under California’s Dispute Resolution Programs Act (DRPA), which governs community mediation programs across the state.
By completing this training, Mark is now qualified to serve as a certified DRPA mediator in California.
A New Tool for Resolving Disputes
Mediation plays an increasingly important role in the legal system. Rather than relying solely on lengthy and costly court proceedings, mediation allows parties to work with a neutral third party to find mutually acceptable solutions. For businesses, individuals, and organizations, this process often leads to faster resolutions, reduced expenses, and more collaborative outcomes.
Mark’s certification adds another dimension to the services our firm can provide. His training focused on critical mediation techniques, including:
- Facilitating constructive dialogue between disputing parties
- Identifying underlying interests and priorities
- Managing complex negotiations
- Guiding participants toward voluntary agreements
These skills strengthen our firm’s ability to help clients resolve conflicts efficiently while preserving relationships and minimizing disruption.
Giving Back Through Court Service
As part of his next step in this journey, Mark plans to volunteer his time with California courts as a court-appointed mediator. This work allows him to gain hands-on experience assisting individuals who may not otherwise have access to professional mediation services.
Court-connected mediation programs play a vital role in helping courts manage caseloads while providing litigants with a practical path toward resolution. By volunteering, Mark is contributing to the broader legal community and supporting the court system in delivering effective dispute resolution services.
Bay Area Commercial Attorneys Looking Ahead
Over time, Mark intends to incorporate mediation more directly into his professional practice by offering private mediation services for clients seeking an alternative to traditional litigation. This will allow our firm to assist parties at multiple stages of the dispute process—from early negotiation to formal mediation and, when necessary, courtroom representation.
Mediation reflects a philosophy that aligns closely with our firm’s values: helping clients resolve conflicts thoughtfully, efficiently, and with long-term outcomes in mind.
We congratulate Mark on this accomplishment and look forward to the positive impact his mediation expertise will bring to our clients, the courts, and the community. To get in touch with our team, contact us here.