Leading ADR Providers Since 1993

The Griffiths • Goyette Advance Resolution Framework streamlines the entire dispute resolution process.

The Griffiths • Goyette Advance Resolution Framework

As the first Special Master to successfully manage multiparty construction litigation in California, John Griffiths pioneered a process that substantially shortened trial preparations and maximized settlement opportunities. Anne Lawlor Goyette joined the firm in 1998 and continues to refine, update and execute this innovative and proven framework to successfully streamline resolution of your cases.

Special Masters


Special Masters and Referees are appointed through judicial reference as third party neutrals who support the courts in the efficient and fair management and resolution of complex cases.

We streamline the production of necessary information, clarify issues, promote meaningful negotiations, finalize settlements and allocate settlement funds. Special Masters advance timely execution of action plans, address problems before they evolve into unnecessarily expensive and time-consuming disputes and ultimately save parties and courts significant time and expense.

As Special Masters, we have successfully organized and resolved thousands of multiparty cases involving construction, real estate, insurance, product liability and related issues. A few recent examples follow:
• Consolidated cases involving $ 12 million in alleged damages and personal injuries arising out of renovation work and a fire at a historic hotel

• More than $ 50 million in damages alleged against three dozen parties for defects and economic loss at seven student housing buildings at large public university with repairs performed during litigation
• Homeowners’ $ 4.5 million claim for HOA alleged failure to repair leak that caused mold, property damages

• Multi million dollar cases asserting construction defects, indemnity, economic loss, recovery on mechanic’s liens and/or insurance issues relating to the construction of high schools, senior living center, apartments, condominiums, single family homes, hotels, vacation resort, commercial space

Mediators


Mediators are third party neutrals retained by all parties to assist them in resolving their disputes. The Mediator has no judicial authority, the process is informal, and communications are confidential. The Mediator meets with the parties to understand goals, explore available resources, develop solutions, pursue meaningful negotiations and finalize agreements.

Mediation generates opportunities unavailable in formal litigation and strengthens the decision makers’ control of the outcome while minimizing the significant risks, delays, and costs of trial.

As Mediators, we have successfully settled thousands of cases. A few recent examples follow:
• Disputes involving construction defects, design issues, mechanics liens, breach of contract and related claims

• Property damage and subrogation claims arising out of fire that destroyed homes in retirement community

• Fund allocations in statewide class action settlement involving roofing product

• Litigation involving the purchase and sale of real property, including fraud and misrepresentation claims
• Multiple pelvic mesh cases filed in multi-district litigation venued in the Southern District of West Virginia

• Actions seeking damages for personal injuries suffered in automobile accidents, slip and fall

• Employment disputes alleging damages for age, race, pregnancy and other types of discrimination

Arbitrators


Arbitrators are third party neutrals empowered to weigh evidence, analyze legal arguments, conduct formal hearings and issue advisory or final binding decisions. Parties agree to submit a dispute to arbitration through written agreements that delineate the scope of the arbitrator’s authority. The process is less formal than trial yet more formal than mediation.

Arbitration generally is quicker, less expensive and more private than formal litigation. A few recent examples follow:
• Action against public entity for more than $720,000 in damages for breach of lease and specific performance of a covenant to allow fish buying business to install hoist on pier

• Claim for more than $ 370,000 in damages for misstatement, concealment and/or nondisclosure of the defects in the purchase and sale of home
• Allocation of nationwide class action settlement funds addressing claims for defective decking and railing materials

• Securities-related disputes between stock brokers and investors for allegedly unsuitable stock recommendations, excessive trading, misrepresentation and lack of supervision
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