The Annual Mediation Conference, organized by the Southern California Mediation Association (SCMA), is a premier event dedicated to advancing the practice and profession of mediation. Scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2025, the conference will be held at the Caruso School of Law at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. This year's theme, "The Ever-Changing World of Mediation," focuses on providing mediators with practical tools to grow their practices and explore new avenues for professional development and volunteer opportunities.
The conference will feature a range of skill-building workshops and thought-provoking discussions designed to enhance professional competence. Key sessions include a keynote address by Professor Laurie L. Levenson, Esq., titled "Thinking Outside the Box and the Quest for Justice," and a special plenary session on "Mediating Through Crisis: The Evolving Role of Mediation in Disaster Relief and Community Recovery." Attendees can also participate in workshops covering topics such as high-conflict probate disputes, obligations to participants with disabilities, and the role of mediators in social activism.
In addition to educational sessions, the conference offers numerous networking opportunities, including a Friday Night Awards Dinner at Lawry’s The Prime Rib in Beverly Hills. The event also features an exhibitor hall and a Community Mediation Fair, providing attendees with resources and connections to enhance their mediation practices. Notable speakers include Dr. Jack R. Goetz, Esq., M.B.A., Erika Doherty, Esq., Mia Ellis, Esq., and Christopher M. Welch, among others.
This conference is ideal for mediators, legal professionals, and individuals interested in alternative dispute resolution. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the evolving mediation landscape, develop practical skills, and connect with leading professionals in the field. Whether you're looking to enhance your practice, explore volunteer opportunities, or stay abreast of industry developments, this event offers a comprehensive platform for growth and engagement.
Speakers(22)
Brenda Radmacher, Esq.
Christopher H. Knauf, Esq.
Christopher M. Welch
Executive Director at Center for Conflict Resolution
Christopher Welch is the Executive Director of the Center for Conflict Resolution, a nonprofit organization providing court-connected and community-based mediation services throughout Los Angeles County.
Claudia Brown-Coulter
President at Southern California Mediation Association
Claudia Brown-Coulter is the President of the Southern California Mediation Association and specializes in mediating complex family dynamics involving education, disability, and divorce.
David Shraga, Esq.
Dr. Brian Jarrett
Dr. Clare Fowler
Dr. Jack R. Goetz, Esq., M.B.A.
Vice-Chair at California State Bar’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Certification Program Working Group
Dr. Jack R. Goetz serves as Vice-Chair for the California State Bar’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Certification Program Working Group and participates in various public and private panels as an arbitrator and mediator.
Erika Doherty, Esq.
Deputy Executive Director at State Bar of California
Erika Doherty serves as the Deputy Executive Director of the State Bar of California, overseeing the licensing, regulation, and discipline of California attorneys.
Gregory Dern
Helen Winter, PhD, LLM
John Glowacki, Esq.
Joumana Silyan-Saba
Lee Jay Berman
Lydia Gala Liberio, Esq., LLM, MBA
Mia Ellis, Esq.
Deputy Special Counsel at State Bar of California’s Division of Regulation
Mia Ellis is Deputy Special Counsel for the State Bar of California’s Division of Regulation, overseeing areas such as the Office of Professional Competence, Licensee Records and Compliance unit, and the Legal Specialization unit.
Natasha Fedder, Esq.
Philip Barbaro Jr., Esq.
Professor Laurie L. Levenson, Esq.
David W. Burcham Chair in Ethical Advocacy at Loyola Law School
Professor Laurie L. Levenson is the David W. Burcham Chair in Ethical Advocacy at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, California.
Professor Lucia Galante Johnson
Sukhsimranjit Singh, PhD
Tracey Frisch, Esq.
Event Details
- Date
- October 25, 2025
- Location
- 🇺🇸 Malibu, United States
- Caruso School of Law at Pepperdine University
- Pricing
- $275 - $395
- Audience
- Mediators, legal professionals, individuals interested in alternative dispute resolution
- CLE Credits
- Please review the individual workshop descriptions to verify which workshops qualify for California MCLE credit.